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Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Painting & Decorating
Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Painting & Decorating
Looking for a painting and decorating NVQ Level 2? This is the one for working painters and decorators, and it leads to the blue CSCS Skilled Worker card. Just need the card? See how to get a painter CSCS card. The Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Painting & Decorating is a competence-based construction NVQ awarded by GQA (a CITB-approved centre). Assessed entirely in your workplace via remote e-portfolio — no exams, nationwide. It costs £750 fixed with no VAT, typically takes 4–8 weeks with assessment carried out remotely or on site from your normal work — no exams, no classroom.
Qualification Overview
The Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Painting & Decorating is a competence-based construction NVQ awarded by GQA (a CITB-approved centre). Assessed entirely in your workplace via remote e-portfolio — no exams, nationwide.
Qualification Structure
The Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Painting & Decorating is built from mandatory and optional units. You complete all mandatory units, plus optional units chosen to match your pathway.
Mandatory units Required — all 6
You must complete all 6 mandatory units.
| Unit no. | Unit title | Level | Credit |
|---|---|---|---|
| A/503/1170 | Conforming to General Health, Safety and Welfare in the Workplace | 1 | 2 |
| J/503/1169 | Conforming to Productive Working Practices in the Workplace | 2 | 3 |
| F/503/1171 | Moving, Handling and Storing Resources in the Workplace | 2 | 5 |
| D/600/8281 | Erecting and dismantling access/working platforms in the workplace | 2 | 8 |
| J/650/0299 | Preparing surfaces for painting and/or decorating in the workplace | 2 | 27 |
| T/650/0300 | Applying surface coatings by brush and roller in the workplace | 2 | 22 |
Qualification facts
- Qualification number (QAN): 610/0053/X
- Total Qualification Time (TQT): 590 hours
- Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 261
- Assessment method: Portfolio of Evidence (workplace observation, witness testimony, professional discussion and knowledge questions)
Available pathway
This qualification is delivered as GQA Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Decorative Finishing (Construction) — a single competence-based NVQ with a choice of specialist pathways. You qualify in the pathway that matches the work you already do on site, assessed by remote e-portfolio. Available pathways include Brush & Roller Coatings, Commercial Painter, Decorator, Exterior / Access Decorating, Painter.
- Brush & Roller Coatings
- Commercial Painter
- Decorator
- Exterior / Access Decorating
- Painter
Popular routes include surface coatings, brush roller, commercial painter, decorator, painting and decorating, external decorating, access equipment, painter. Tell us your trade and we’ll confirm the right pathway and CSCS card outcome (Blue CSCS Skilled Worker).
Entry requirements
You are already doing the work day to day, as an employee or self-employed. There are no entry qualifications and no exams — you are assessed on the job you already do.
To start Level 2 qualification you need:
- A relevant job to be assessed in. This is a competence qualification, so you must have access to real work of the right type while you are registered. No workplace, no evidence.
- Proof of identity — a passport, driving licence or similar, as the awarding body requires.
- A National Insurance number, so we can obtain your Unique Learner Number.
- Enough English to explain your work to your assessor and to talk through your evidence.
- A device with a camera — a phone is fine. Evidence is photos and short videos of your own work, uploaded to your e-portfolio.
You do not need: any prior qualification, any classroom attendance, or to sit an exam. Assessment is entirely in your workplace via a remote e-portfolio, nationwide.
Tell us about any support need, disability or learning difficulty when you enrol and we will arrange reasonable adjustments — it does not affect whether you can take the qualification.
The awarding body sets the final entry criteria for each qualification. If you are not sure whether your current role gives you the right evidence, ask us before you book — we would rather tell you honestly than register you for something you cannot complete.
What card does this NVQ lead to?
Leads to the Blue CSCS Skilled Worker card
On completion you can apply for the Blue CSCS Skilled Worker card, proving competence in your trade.
Your NVQ pathway
- Level 2 Skilled
- Level 3 Advanced
- Level 4 Supervisor
- Level 5 Senior Supervisor
- Level 6 Manager
Your current qualification is highlighted. Progress up the pathway as your career develops.
How the e-portfolio assessment works
- Enrol and be assigned a dedicated occupational assessor.
- Gather workplace evidence — photos, videos, witness statements — via our online portal.
- Complete a professional discussion and observations against the 610/0053/X standards.
- Certification, then apply to CSCS for your card.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Painting & Decorating NVQ take?
Most learners complete in 4–8 weeks, depending on how quickly workplace evidence is gathered.
Are there any exams?
No. This is a competence-based qualification assessed through workplace evidence, observation and professional discussion.
Is funding available?
CITB-registered employers can claim an achievement grant. See our funding guide for details.
Choose your pathway
This qualification is assessed against your actual job role — pick the pathway page that matches yours: