The UK’s largest trade body dedicated to the painting and decorating sector has issued a challenge to apprentices learning the craft across the UK.
The Painting and Decorating Association (PDA) is calling on apprentices to put their skills to the test and see if their stamina, accuracy and creativity match up to those of their peers from across each region.
Top scorers from each area will battle it out in a Grand Final round with those awarded the PDA Apprentice of the Year title receiving their prizes at the Association’s prestigious Premier Trophy Awards ceremony in July.
The deadline to apply for the contest is Friday 13 February, and coincides in National Apprenticeship Week 2026.
PDA Chief Executive Neil Ogilvie said: “The daily theme for the Friday of National Apprenticeship Week is Celebration and our Apprentice of the Year competition is certainly an opportunity to celebrate the skills and talents of the people embarking on a Career in Colour.
“Painting and decorating is a skilled craft and our competition events are designed to test the precision, knowledge and flair of apprentices, as well as giving them a chance to connect with like-minded people in their region and be in with a chance to take home the coveted title.
“Apprentices who have competed in the past regularly tell us that taking part in the contest boosts their confidence and encourages them to improve their skillset and map out a career plan.
“For the first time this year, the PDA will be travelling to Belfast, which means the apprentices who make it through to the Grand Final will be competing against top scorers from Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, the North of England, South of England and the Midlands.”
Regional heats will be held at:
- Workforce Training Services Belfast, 26 February
- City of Glasgow College, 12 March
- College Merthyr Tydfil, 19 March
- City College Plymouth, 23 April
- South and City College Birmingham, 30 April
- Preston College, 14 May
The competition final will be hosted by DN Colleges Group at Doncaster College/ University Centre on June 4.
Neil Ogilvie added: “The PDA’s Premier Trophy Awards is a spectacular event held at the stunning Plaisterers’ Hall in London.
“It’s a truly special occasion for the apprentice painters and decorators who get to that stage and there is real value for them in being able to add PDA Apprentice of the Year 2026 to their CV.”
Find out more about the PDA here, or download entry forms for the Apprentice of the Year competition here.
