A plastering student at Able Skills is crouched down applying fresh plaster to a wall

Whether you’re looking to take your first steps towards a career in plastering or just want to learn some basic skills that you can use on home renovation projects, Able Skills offer a range of expert-led plastering courses suited to all levels of experience. 

What does a plasterer do?

A plasterer is someone who applies coats of plaster or stucco to walls, ceilings and other services for protective and decorative purposes. A vital part of the wider construction industry, the typical duties of a plasterer can include: 

  • Estimating and pricing the materials needed for a job
  • Preparing surfaces and levelling off uneven areas
  • Mixing plaster by hand or with an electric mixer
  • Applying ‘wet’ finishes to walls and ceilings
  • Creating decorative features like ceiling roses
  • Fixing internal plasterboard or wallboard partitions
  • Coating outside walls with protective coverings

Why are training and qualifications important to the trade?

Health and safety are at the forefront of any construction trade, and formal training is crucial in protecting both yourself and your potential clients. 

For plasterers who want to work on-site, you’ll need to hold a CSCS Card. To register for this you’ll need to pass a health, safety and environment test (HS&E). 

Plastering training courses at Able Skills

Introduction to Plastering: A five-day intensive course that’s ideal for anyone wanting to learn basic plastering skills, and potentially move into more in-depth training afterwards. 

Advanced Plastering Course: Aimed at those who already have basic plastering skills, and want to expand their knowledge and skills further.

Accredited Plastering Course: A bespoke course designed by our instructors that they feel, based on their own in-depth experience, meets the latest needs of the industry. 

City & Guilds Plastering Course: A four-week basic plastering qualification that’s a great starting point for anyone looking to begin their career in the industry.

NVQ Level 2 Plastering Course: An in-depth eight-week course that will cover the skills and knowledge needed to enter the plastering industry and become NVQ qualified.

Level 2 Plastering Diploma: A mixture of practical and theory-based assessments, this course is perfect for anyone with a basic understanding of the industry wanting to come straight in at level 2.

Level 2 Plastering Diploma / NVQ: This course will provide candidates with as much knowledge of plastering as possible, and anyone completing it will find themselves entirely ready for site employment. 

Experienced Plasterers Who Need NVQ: For experienced plasterers who require a formal qualification. No site assessments are required, just a profiling session at Able Skills, evidence gathered by yourself and a practical test to confirm your competence. 

Work-based Assessments for Plastering NVQ Level 2: If you’re a plasterer with less than five years of experience, Able Skills can arrange the necessary work-based assessments needed for your NVQ Level 2.

Testimonials

“Able skills were helpful and the training was first class! Neil and Joe are brilliant plasterers with a good system on training. I have since plastered two jobs with customers and I only completed the introduction course.”

Samuel, Introduction to Plastering student

"I have completed the six-week plastering course and enjoyed the hands-on learning approach within a relaxed atmosphere. Thank you so much to Joe and Neal, for sharing your knowledge, advice and tips. I have learnt so much, feel more confident and hope to develop my skills further. Great facilities, great course, highly recommend!”

Kristina, City & Guilds Plastering Course

Flexible plastering training

We’re committed to making our training as accessible as possible, meaning many of our plastering courses can be completed on a part-time basis and paid for as you go along the course, to suit your needs. If you need somewhere to stay while completing a course, we’re also able to offer affordable accommodation close by.