The NVQ in Painting and Decorating became more or less mandatory for UK painters and decorators in 2010, when the construction industry wholeheartedly adopted a stricter recognition of CSCS Cards. Where it used to be difficult to get work on a building site without a CSCS Card, it is now hard for a painter and decorator to get work without the correct CSCS Card – i.e. the one that accurately reflects your trade and skill level. While the Painting and Decorating NVQ is not a legal requirement, it is increasingly necessary for painters and decorators who wish to perform site work in the UK.
There are different routes through the qualification system suitable for different people. If you have just started as a painter and decorator you will need to follow Route 1: if you have been painting and decorating for some time you will find other ways to achieve your NVQ in Painting and Decorating.
NVQ Painting and Decorating Route 1
New painters and decorators are recommended to gain foundation qualifications before moving into their NVQ. The City and Guilds Paint and Decorating Certificate is an ideal foundation for Painting and Decorating NVQ Level 2. If you complete a City and Guilds Painting and Decorating Certificate you can then tack an extra 2 week course onto the end of it, which prepares you as a new painter and decorator to pass your NVQ.
The City and Guilds Certificate is designed for people who are not working in painting and decorating, but who would like to do so. The course contains basic introductory information pertaining to levelling in construction and paint finishing. Towards the end of the course candidates will develop paint finishing; surface preparation; and papering skills.
On Site Assessment for the NVQ in Painting and Decorating
Painters and decorators with less than five years’ experience in the trade, but who have started work, will be eligible for an On Site Assessment. An NVQ On Site Assessment takes place over a period of time and uses your work on the job as evidence of achievement of the necessary skills for your NVQ.
The On Site Assessment begins with an interview between the painter and decorator and a qualified painting and decorating assessor. The assessor will help you draw up an action plan and timetable for proving your skills and achieving your NVQ. Your assessor will sign of the relevant units as he or she sees evidence in your work that you have achieved the required competence.
NVQ Painting and Decorating Route 2
Painters and decorators with more than five years’; experience in the field may be eligible to fast track to an NVQ using an Experienced Worker Practical Assessment. The EWPA starts with a two hour profiling session, during which time your suitability for qualifying through this avenue is assessed. Once your assessor is satisfied that the EWPA is the right route for you, he or she will help you amass a painting and decorating NVQ portfolio. A practical assessment follows. Finally, your assessor conducts a two day recorded professional discussion of your understanding of the industry. If you are successful, and have completed the relevant CSCS Health, Safety & Environment test, you will be awarded your NVQ and CSCS Card.
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