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NVQ Level 3 in Painting and Decorating
Step up to the CSCS Gold Card — complete your Level 3 Painting and Decorating NVQ with on-site assessment, one-to-one support, and one of the UK’s lowest prices.
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Course Features
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What is the NVQ Level 3 in Painting and Decorating?
The NVQ Level 3 in Painting and Decorating is a nationally recognised, work-based qualification for experienced decorators.
It’s designed for professionals who are already working on-site and want to formalise their skills, take on more responsibility, or move into supervisory roles.
🖌️ Get Your CSCS Gold Card
You’ll complete the qualification through on-site evidence, with no exams or classroom sessions, and once you pass, you’ll be eligible to apply for the CSCS Gold Skilled Worker Card.Who Should Take the Level 3 Painting and Decorating?
This qualification is ideal for decorators who already hold a Level 2 NVQ or have significant on-site experience.
If you’re taking on more responsibility at work, such as overseeing other decorators, managing projects, or ensuring quality standards, this NVQ is the next step.
You might be a team leader, supervisor, or senior decorator looking to:
- Gain formal recognition for your advanced skills
- Qualify for the CSCS Gold Skilled Worker Card
- Move into better-paid or more secure roles on-site
- Demonstrate your ability to plan, monitor, and lead decorating work
What’s Covered in the Painting and Decorating Level 3 NVQ?
To achieve the NVQ Level 3, you’ll complete 7 mandatory units and 2 optional units. You’ll cover the core responsibilities expected of a senior decorator, while tailoring parts of the course to your specialist skills or job role.
The NVQ assesses your ability to carry out advanced decorating tasks on-site, from planning and surface preparation to applying finishes and working safely with access equipment.
Core areas covered include:
- ✓ Confirming work activities, resources, and methods on-site
- ✓ Developing and maintaining professional working relationships
- ✓ Erecting and dismantling access equipment (e.g. scaffolding, towers)
- ✓ Preparing surfaces using advanced techniques
- ✓ Applying surface coatings with brushes and rollers
- ✓ Conforming to health, safety, and welfare standards on-site
Optional units include skills like:
- ✓ Hanging wallcoverings
- ✓ Applying stencilled, textured, or specialist finishes
- ✓ Using spray application techniques
- ✓ Installing coving and decorative mouldings
🛠️ Note: Your assessor will help you choose the most relevant optional units based on your current role, responsibilities, and the decorating tasks you carry out on-site.
How Do I Complete this NVQ?
You’ll complete the NVQ Level 3 qualification by building a portfolio of evidence that reflects your skills, responsibilities, and leadership in real-world decorating jobs.
Once you enrol, your assessor will arrange an induction to:
- Set up your access to our online Learning Management System (LMS)
- Show you how to upload evidence and monitor your progress
- Guide you through each stage of the portfolio and assessment process
You’ll work through the NVQ at your own pace, supported one-to-one by your assessor with regular check-ins, feedback, and tailored advice — all designed to help you demonstrate the advanced competencies required at Level 3.
How Long Will it Take Me to Finish the NVQ Level 3?
The NVQ Level 3 is completed at your own pace, depending on how quickly you can gather evidence from your day-to-day decorating work. Since the qualification is fully work-based, you can fit it around your current role without stepping away from site.
You’ll be asked to submit written responses, site documentation, and photo or video proof of the tasks you lead or complete on the job. Your assessor will break the process down into clear steps and provide guidance at every stage.
While you have up to 12 months to finish, most learners complete the NVQ in around 4 to 5 weeks, especially if they’re working regularly and stay engaged with their assessor.
How is the NVQ Level 3 Painting and Decorating Assessed?
This NVQ is assessed entirely on-site, based on the tasks you already carry out in your current role. You'll build a portfolio of evidence that demonstrates your ability to manage, plan, and execute painting and decorating work to an advanced standard, with no exams or classroom time involved.
As part of your assessment, you’ll be asked to:
- Answer brief knowledge questions
- Upload photos or videos of your decorating work
- Provide documents like job specs or risk assessments
- Submit a witness statement from a supervisor or manager
No need to worry. You’ll have one-to-one support from your assessor throughout the entire process. They’ll help you gather the right evidence, guide you step by step, and keep you on track. We’ve supported thousands of learners through this NVQ, with a proven 100% pass rate.
Are there Any Entry Requirements for this Level 3 Qualification?
To enrol in the NVQ Level 3 in Painting and Decorating, you should already be working in the trade and ideally have completed a Level 2 NVQ or hold equivalent experience.
This qualification is aimed at decorators who are already managing jobs, overseeing quality, or supervising other workers on-site. You’ll need access to active decorating projects where you can demonstrate planning and advanced application techniques as part of your evidence portfolio.
What Will I Receive After Passing this Level 3 NVQ in Painting?
Once you complete the course, you’ll be awarded the Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Decorative Finishing – Painting and Decorating. This is a nationally recognised qualification that confirms your advanced skills in the trade.
You’ll also qualify to apply for the CSCS Gold Skilled Worker Card - a recognised badge of competence for decorators in senior roles, including supervisors and those managing on-site decorating projects across the UK.
How Can I Progress After Completing this Painter and Decorator Qualification?
After completing the NVQ Level 3 in Painting and Decorating, the next step for many decorators is the NVQ Level 4 in Construction Site Supervision. This qualification is ideal if you want to move beyond hands-on decorating into a formal supervisory or management role on-site.
It’s also the recognised path to applying for the CSCS Gold Supervisor Card, giving you formal status as a construction site supervisor across the UK.
What Are the Benefits of Completing this Level 3 NVQ?
This advanced qualification offers a wide range of professional benefits for decorators ready to step up in their careers:
- ✓ CSCS Gold Card Eligibility – Qualify to apply for the Gold Skilled Worker Card, ideal for supervisors and lead decorators.
- ✓ Leadership Recognition – Show you're capable of managing projects, guiding teams, and maintaining high standards on-site.
- ✓ Access to Senior Roles – Unlock opportunities for better-paid work, team leader positions, or site supervision roles.
- ✓ Respected Industry Status – Strengthens your profile with clients and employers as a decorator working to nationally recognised standards.
- ✓ Work-Based, No Exams – No classroom learning or formal tests — just real evidence of your on-site decorating experience.
- ✓ Nationally Recognised Qualification – Valid for life and trusted across the UK construction industry.
- ✓ Built-In Health & Safety Awareness – Reinforces your understanding of site safety, regulations, and responsible working practices.
Can I Complete the NVQ Level 3 in Painting and Decorating Online?
Yes - this qualification is entirely online and completed through on-site evidence. You’ll upload proof of your work using our online learner platform, with no classroom attendance or exams required.
The entire process is based on the advanced decorating tasks you already carry out as part of your role.
How Much Does the NVQ Level 3 Painting and Decorating Cost?
The full cost of the NVQ Level 3 in Painting and Decorating is £899.99. This price includes one-to-one support from your assessor throughout the course, full access to our online learning and portfolio platform, your initial induction, regular progress check-ins, and final certification.
💡 There are no hidden charges, and we offer interest-free instalment plans to help make the qualification as accessible and stress-free as possible.
What Job Roles Can this Level 3 Painter and Decorator Qualification Lead to?
Achieving your Level 3 in Painting and Decorating can lead to higher-responsibility roles across the construction and decorating sectors, such as:
- ✓ Senior Painter and Decorator
- ✓ Site Supervisor (Decorating Team)
- ✓ Team Leader or Lead Hand
- ✓ Quality Inspector (Finishes)
- ✓ Specialist Finisher or Heritage Decorator
This qualification positions you for better-paid and more stable roles, especially if you’re already leading tasks or overseeing others on-site.
How Much Can I Earn with this Level 3 Painting and Decorating Course?
Qualified decorators holding a Level 3 NVQ and CSCS Gold Card often earn between £38,000 and £50,000+ per year, depending on experience, location, and the scope of responsibility.
Supervisors and lead decorators on commercial or heritage projects can earn significantly more.
How to Apply for Your CSCS Gold Card (Painting and Decorating)
To apply for the CSCS Gold Skilled Worker Card, you’ll need to:
- Successfully complete this NVQ Level 3 in Decorative Finishing – Painting and Decorating.
- Pass the CITB Health, Safety & Environment (Operatives) Test — within the last 2 years.
- Submit your application via the official CSCS website, with evidence of both the NVQ and test pass.
📌 The Gold CSCS Card is valid for five years. For more details, see our blog on How to Get a CSCS Gold Card.
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What you will learn
- Planning and preparing decorating work
- Managing materials and access equipment
- Applying advanced finishes and coatings
- Supervising health and safety on-site
- Leading or guiding team members
- Monitoring quality and standards
- Coordinating with other trades
Course content
You will learn how to assess the tasks required to be performed, determine the equipment, tools, and materials needed, and establish a plan to carry out the work effectively. By completing this unit, you will gain the skills to ensure that all necessary resources are available and properly allocated for successful completion of work in your workplace.
In this unit, you will learn the importance of developing and maintaining positive working relationships in your occupational environment.
This unit focuses on understanding and confirming the appropriate method of work within your occupational setting. You will learn how to analyse work procedures, identify potential hazards, and evaluate the most efficient and safe approach to carry out tasks.
In this unit, you will learn the procedures and techniques involved in erecting and dismantling access/working platforms within your workplace. You will explore the different types of platforms, their components, and the safety measures required during their assembly and disassembly.
In this unit, you will discover the techniques and processes involved in preparing surfaces for painting and/or decorating within your workplace. You will learn about surface assessment, cleaning, filling, and sanding methods to achieve a smooth and suitable base for painting or decorating activities.
This unit focuses on the application of surface coatings using brush and roller techniques in the workplace. You will learn the correct procedures for selecting, preparing, and applying coatings to achieve desired finishes.
In this unit, you will explore the principles and practices related to general health, safety, and welfare in the workplace. You will learn about relevant legislation, risk assessment procedures, emergency protocols, and personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements.
* To successfully complete this qualification, passing the first seven mandatory units is a critical requirement. Additionally, you'll need to choose two optional units: one from Group A and another from Group B.
Group A:
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Hang wallcoverings (standard and foundation papers) in the workplace [OPTIONAL UNIT]
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Hang non-standard width wallcoverings in the workplace [OPTIONAL UNIT]
Group B:
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Applying coatings by the airless spray method in the workplace [OPTIONAL UNIT]
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Applying coatings by the air spray method in the workplace [OPTIONAL UNIT]
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Producing and applying complex stencils in the workplace [OPTIONAL UNIT]
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Hanging wallcoverings to complex surfaces in the workplace [OPTIONAL UNIT]
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Hanging wallcoverings (specialised paper) in the workplace [OPTIONAL UNIT]
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Producing comb textured finishes in the workplace [OPTIONAL UNIT]
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Applying metal leaf to surfaces in the workplace [OPTIONAL UNIT]
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Installing coving and decorative mouldings in the workplace [OPTIONAL UNIT]
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Applying coatings to produce textured finishes in the workplace [OPTIONAL UNIT]
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Producing broken colour effects in the workplace [OPTIONAL UNIT]
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Producing stencil designs using pre-cut stencil plates in the workplace [OPTIONAL UNIT]
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Producing straight wood-grained effects in the workplace [OPTIONAL UNIT]
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Producing quality replica wood-grained finishes in the workplace [OPTIONAL UNIT]
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Producing marbling effects in the workplace [OPTIONAL UNIT]
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Producing quality replica marble finishes in the workplace [OPTIONAL UNIT]
Brilliant nvq course my assessor was Kehinde, and I honestly couldn’t have asked for better support. Everything was explained clearly and I felt supported every step.
John helped me through every stage of the NVQ. Really friendly and always quick to respond to any queries I had. Would definitely recommend this course to others.
The nvq was easier than I expected thanks to Kehinde’s guidance. He made sure I was on track and always gave constructive feedback. Great experience all round.
I wasnt sure what to expect, but Kehinde was brilliant. He gave me the confidence to complete my NVQ and made the whole process stress free.
Got my nvq really quickly with hurak. My teacher was humza who was really helpful in helping me complete my nvq in just 4 weeks. Going to do my level 4 with them soon too.
A very helpful Staff and environment to achieve your goal. They are very helpful in any needs to make you comfortable and confident. Was a pleasure.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes - once enrolled, you can apply for a Red CSCS Experienced Worker Card, allowing you to continue working on-site while completing your NVQ.
Yes - the NVQ Level 3 is CITB-approved and eligible for grant funding. Your employer must be registered with CITB and meet the criteria. Please check with CITB for the most up-to-date information.
Once your assessor confirms that your portfolio meets the required standard, it will be internally verified. You’ll then be awarded the NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Decorative Finishing – Painting and Decorating, and you’ll become eligible to apply for the CSCS Gold Skilled Worker Card.
It’s very unlikely. As long as you’re working in painting and decorating and can provide the required evidence, your assessor will support you in meeting all the criteria. The qualification is designed to validate the advanced work you're already doing.
Most learners complete the NVQ in 4 to 5 weeks, depending on how actively they gather and submit evidence. You’ll have up to 12 months to finish, and your assessor will help you stay on track.
No - this is a fully work-based qualification. Everything is completed through on-site evidence and submitted online via our learner platform.
You’ll need to provide real examples of your work, such as job briefs, risk assessments, surface preparation photos, or videos of you managing decorating tasks. A brief witness statement from a supervisor or colleague may also be included.
This NVQ is assessed entirely on-site through your current work. You’ll build a portfolio of evidence that demonstrates your planning, leadership, and hands-on skills. All evidence is uploaded online and supported by one-to-one guidance from your assessor - no exams or classroom sessions required.
We offer a guaranteed pass because this NVQ is designed to assess what you already do on-site, not test you in a classroom. As long as you’re actively working in painting and decorating and stay engaged with your assessor, we’ll guide you through the process until you succeed.