At Able Skills, we’ve spent the last decade ensuring our training programmes cater to all levels of ability. Whether it’s an introductory course for someone wanting to learn basic skills, right through to ensuring experienced tradespeople meet all the latest industry-standard qualifications.
With that being said, a large number of our students actually have no intention of going on to work in the trades, rather, they’re just looking to pick up some valuable DIY skills they can use on their own homes and passion projects.
In our latest Student Success story, we caught up with Rickie. An Income Officer by profession, Rickie enrolled in our Introduction to Plastering course as a way of helping him complete his own home renovation.
The intensive hands-on programme is ideal for anyone looking to gain a basic insight into plastering. Participants cover health & safety, cutting and fixing plasterboard, surface preparation, skimming, finishing and a range of other vital skills.
Thanks to the flexible nature of the course, Rickie was able to complete his training around his own prior commitments and day job, spreading the sessions over two weekends.
The benefits of learning a trade skill
Having the ability to carry out DIY work yourself can bring with it a priceless list of benefits. One of the more obvious ones is how much money you could potentially save in not having to hire a professional, especially when it comes to smaller, more straightforward jobs—a perk that you’ll possess for life.
In addition to that, it means you won’t have to wait around until a plasterer becomes available and you can work to your own schedule as opposed to someone else’s.
“I had no experience at all and felt very confident after my training. I have loved how with practice, you improve so quickly,” Rickie said when asked about his time with Able Skills.
“I am currently re-plastering most of the walls in my house. I have been using the methods and advice given by Joe and Neal, the only difference is that I use a speedskim for flattening and flexi trowel for the final stages.”
What advice would you give to others learning how to plaster?
“Ask lots of questions. Both Joe and Neal are very approachable and are happy to give you their advice. You will improve the more you practice—even within a week or over the two weekends you will see this. Finally, Enjoy it.”
Want to hear more experiences like Rickie’s? Take a look through some of our other Student Success Stories…
Flexible learning with Able Skills
We’re well aware that the time involved with learning a new skill can be a little daunting, especially when trying to fit it around things like work, childcare and other commitments. This is why a huge number of our courses are available to undertake on a part-time or flexible basis, with sessions being adapted to suit individual needs.
Whether you’re interested in learning more about our Introduction to Plastering Course, or about how our trade courses can be tailored to your own schedule, our friendly team would be happy to talk things through.
Give us a call on 01322 280 202, request a brochure or pop into our training centre for a chat.