AM - Active Development Message.

::: PLEASE BE AWARE THIS SECTION OF THE SITE IS UNDER ACTIVE DEVELOPMENT! :::
...

Advanced Decorative Painting (SCQF Level 6) NQ

(SCQF level 6)

Construction Crafts, Nautical and STEM

Mode of Study

Full-time

Start Date

25th Aug 2025, 1 year

Location

City Campus

  • Applications from International Students Welcome
    •

    Overview

    This hands-on and engaging course provides students with a unique opportunity to explore the world of decorative painting, focusing on traditional methods and contemporary practices. Designed for those with a passion for creativity and an interest in developing specialised skills, this course equips students with the knowledge and practical expertise needed for success in a variety of creative industries.

    Students will gain extensive practical experience in the following core areas:

    • Signwriting: Discover the art of crafting elegant hand-painted signage, focusing on typography, brush control, and precision to create visually striking and professional designs.
    • Gilding: Learn the intricate process of applying gold, silver, or other metallic leaf to surfaces, mastering techniques for traditional and modern applications to achieve luxurious effects.
    • Marbling: Explore the delicate art of replicating the appearance of marble, honing skills in layering, blending, and veining to produce realistic stone finishes.
    • Graining: Develop techniques to mimic the rich textures and patterns of natural wood, from subtle fine grains to bold, dramatic effects.

    In addition to these key areas, the course introduces students to a range of other decorative painting techniques, including glazing, stencilling, and textured finishes, encouraging experimentation and creativity.

    Students will work on a variety of projects, both individually and collaboratively, with opportunities to apply their skills to practical, real-world contexts. The course places a strong emphasis on craftsmanship, attention to detail, and artistic problem-solving, building a foundation of expertise that is invaluable in industries such as theatre, interior design, set decoration, and bespoke surface finishes.

    The programme is delivered through a combination of practical workshops, demonstrations, and project-based learning. Students will also benefit from insights provided by guest speakers and industry professionals, gaining valuable knowledge about career opportunities and current trends in decorative arts.

    Whether you are looking to begin your journey in decorative painting, enhance your existing skills, or explore a new creative direction, this course offers a rich and rewarding experience. It serves as an excellent stepping stone for further study or a career in the vibrant fields of decorative arts and design.

    Entry requirements

    Minimum entry requirements

    • One National 5 qualification at Grade C or above in a relevant subject such as Art and Design, Technical Studies, or Construction; OR
    • Painting and Decorating Level 5 course; OR
    • Other equivalent qualifications or experience

    Additional selection requirements

    • You'll be invited for a group and/or individual interview where you can find out more about the course and tell us why you're interested in this subject area or we'll make an offer based on your application form.
    • Basic knowledge of colour theory, surface preparation, and standard painting techniques.

    ESOL entry requirements

    Applicants whose first language is not English should have minimum SQA ESOL National 5 or equivalent for NC/NQ courses and ESOL Higher or equivalent for HNC/D courses.

    What you study

    • Hands-on practical training in specialist decorative techniques.
    • Opportunities to work on bespoke projects with a professional focus.
    • Support and mentorship from experienced tutors and industry experts.
    • Development of skills highly valued in creative industries.

    After the course

    Careers

    Possible career routes include:

    • Decorative Artist.
    • Signwriter.
    • Scenic Artist (Theatre, Film, and TV).
    • Set Designer/Decorator.
    • Interior Decorative Painter.
    • Restoration Specialist.
    • Freelance Decorative Painter.
    • Creative Roles in the Retail and Events Industry.
    • Educator or Workshop Leader.
    • Specialist Painter for Luxury Brands.

    Continuing Study

    On successful completion of this course you can move on to:-

    • NQ Art and Design.
    • NQ Applied Arts.
    • HNC Art and Design.
    • HNC Applied Arts.
    • NQ Art and Design: Interior Design
    • HND 3D Design: Model Making for the Creative Industries.
    • Painting and Decorating Apprenticeships.

    Teaching

    How the course is taught

    The course will be a blend of practical work in our state-of-the-art workshops and theory, either online or at our world-class City Campus building.

    You will attend college 3 days per week - two days practical and one day theory.

    Assessment methods

    You will be assessed via a mix of summative and formative assessments.

    Additional Information

    Dress code

    For the practical side of the course, you will be issued with steel-toed safety boots and work coveralls. Safety boots are to be worn at all times during practical activities, however workwear must not be worn outside the construction hall or workwear cafe. Students not following this code of conduct will be subject to disciplinary action.

    • Mode of Study:
      Full-time
    • Start Date:
      25th Aug 2025, 1 year
    • Location:
      City Campus
    • Applications from International Students Welcome