Plastering Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship

This apprenticeship is ideal for anyone who is thinking of working within the construction industry as a plasterer. It covers a broad range of skills which are put to use on a range of sites, from large building sites to private houses.

An apprenticeship combines hands-on learning at work with studying at college to gain a nationally-recognised qualification. This programme provides a rounded training and covers a broad range of training, including working on a range of sites from private houses to large building sites.

You develop a range of plastering skills including preparing surfaces for plaster, and working with fibrous plaster to create solid internal and external finishes. You also specialize your training with two optional units – e.g. laying screeds, fixing plasterboards or installing dry linings.

The plastering apprenticeship is made up of the following elements:

- Level 2 Construction Diploma
- NVQ Level 2 in Plastering
- Functional Skills in Maths, English and ICT
- Employment Rights and Responsibilities


The NVQ in plastering is made up of mandatory and optional units.

Mandatory units:

conform to general workspace safety
conform to efficient work practices
move and handle resources
prepare background surfaces for plaster
produce internal solid plastering finishes
produce external solid finishes

Optional units (two required):

apply finishing plaster to background surfaces
install direct bond
dry linings
lay sand and cement screeds
apply projection plaster
maintain equipment
install mechanically fixed plasterboard

You have up to 18 months to achieve all the elements of your apprenticeship, although you may be able to achieve it quicker depending on your progress.

Apprenticeships let you benefit from real life work experience which you will get day-to-day in your job. This experience is supported by theoretical knowledge gained at college in both classroom and workshop based sessions/assessments. You attend college on one or two days a week.

You are assessed in the workplace by a qualified and trade-competent assessor who will help support you and your employer in achieving your qualification. Some elements are assessed by exam.

You get a nationally-recognised qualification while gaining valuable skills and experience within the plastering trade. You also obtain a valuable insight into future career opportunities that may be open to you.

There are no formal entry requirements for this apprenticeship. After submitting your application you will be invited for an interview and initial assessment to ensure that you are at the right level of learning, and that the course is right for you.

The apprenticeship will provide you with the skills to progress further within your chosen trade. You may wish to work for an established firm or take advantage of the scope for self-employment which this trade offers.