While many Brits can profess to getting plastered when the weekend rears its joyous head, actual plastering is a skill that far fewer people have mastered.

Luckily, if you're looking to boost your home maintenance expertise, the path to plastering proficiency can be as smooth as a freshly-skimmed ceiling.

Whether you’re actively thinking of pursuing a plastering career or your home is simply in need of a bit of TLC, a plastering course from Access Training is a great way to fill the holes in your knowledge and get to grips with this extremely handy skill set.

How do I become a plasterer?

According to UCAS, you don’t need to have any formal qualifications for this career path - but that doesn't mean you can just pick up a trowel and a tub of plastering mix and call yourself a plasterer.

In order to make a living from plastering, you will - of course - need to know what you’re doing. The two best routes to plastering nirvana are either a plastering apprenticeship or an accredited plastering training course.

What skills do I need to become a plasterer?

In addition to gaining the know-how of the ins and outs of plastering, it also helps to come equipped with a few key skills in your arsenal.

Plastering can be a physically demanding job, requiring considerable manual labour and long periods of strenuous activity. As such, a decent level of fitness can give you a strong advantage – the last thing you want is to 'hit the wall' when you’re mid-way through coating a ceiling.

In addition to physical fitness, skills such as attention to detail and efficient time management can also play a vital role in your job as a professional plasterer. An uneven finish or a prolonged job can lead to an unhappy customer and the potential for a diminished return.

Speaking of customers, good people skills can also be helpful as you will be dealing with customers face-to-face as part of your daily job. Good manners and a sociable demeanour can go a long way when it comes to customer service, and it can also make the whole process more enjoyable for all concerned.

For aspiring plasterers still in school, prior knowledge can be particularly advantageous, especially if you have studied Design Technology in some form. As such, DT is a helpful and worthwhile subject to pursue, providing a number of highly transferable skills.

Train to become a plasterer

At Access Training, we offer four primary options for those looking to take up plastering. Ranging from base-line knowledge of the trade for total newbies to NVQ certification for accomplished tradespeople, we have the course to suit your needs and skill level.

DIY Plastering Course

Perfect for those looking to learn the basics for home maintenance and household repairs, this course will provide you with the knowledge you need to independently carry out plastering jobs in your own home.

 

Essential Plastering Course

A more in-depth introduction than the DIY alternative, the Essential course offers a thorough introduction to the basics of plastering, providing a great foundation for those looking to pursue a career in the trade.

 

Professional Plastering Course

Offering a comprehensive induction to plastering, the Professional course provides extensive knowledge for those looking to make plastering their career, including everything from mixing and cutting to skimming and screeding.

 

NVQ Level 2 Certification

For the more accomplished pro looking to prove their existing skills, the NVQ Level 2 accreditation can be a great seal of approval to have, demonstrating competency and professionalism to potential employers and customers alike.

Thinking of becoming a plasterer? Make your transition as smooth as a finished wall with a plastering training course from Access Training.

Call 0800 345 7492 today or click the button below for more information.

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If you’re looking to find work in the plastering business there are many ways you can find opportunities in the construction industry.  Plastering is a skill that will always be in high demand and often the best way to learn a trade is with on the job training.  However, those serious about plastering as a trade might want to look into one of the many plastering training courses available.

Working as a plasterer can be quite a lucrative career that provides a steady income and lots of work.  Whether you find with a plastering firm or a firm that includes plastering in its range of services, you should find your skills are constantly in demand.  You may also find that once you have been working in the trade for some time and have acquired extensive experience, you might want to go it alone and set up your own plastering business. 

Get the Word Out

Plastering jobs are often obtained through word of mouth and speaking to other contractors.  If you can get the word out that you are looking for work and that you are willing to work long hours and dedicate your time to learning the trade, you may find a job comes along quicker than expected.  You may also want to enquire directly to construction site managers and tell them that you have some level of training or that you are willing to train on the job.  Whilst you might get given light labourer duties at first, you can learn a lot by being on site and getting involved.  If you can get yourself on a new-build construction site this is one of the best ways to learn more about the plastering and rendering skills you will be required to know.

Your local job centre will also have details of any plastering jobs in your area and also any training courses on offer.  Grants are often available for training and you’ll learn everything you need to start plastering straight away.  The good thing to know is that plasterers are always in demand.  If you can prove your skills and your worth, you’ll find your phone constantly ringing with offers of work. 

Fine Tune Your Skills

Plasterers often add other strings to their bow including painting, tiling and flooring.  Many domestic clients will be looking for a tradesman that has a wide range of skills so taking the time to learn new trades will open up many more doors to you.