Apprentice of the Year

To promote excellence early in their careers, apprentice decorators are given the opportunity to demonstrate their painting skills in the annual Apprentice of the Year competition.

The competition offers apprentices from across the UK the opportunity to test their painting skills against their peers in a six-hour contest. Competitors are tasked with replicating a given design, testing not only their accuracy and skill, but their ability to perform under pressure.

The competition has grown significantly over the last decade, evolving from a single day event into six regional heats and a Grand Final.

A rising number of entrants prompted the move, as more and more apprentices, colleges and employers recognise the value of the competition experience for young people.

Any UK registered painting and decorating apprentice can enter for the chance to win a selection of fantastic prizes.

Overall winners and runners-up in Junior and Senior categories will be invited to receive their awards as part of our prestigious Premier Trophy Awards ceremony at Plaisterers’ Hall, London.

• Northern Ireland: Workforce Training Services Belfast – 26 February 2026
• Scottish Heat: City of Glasgow College – 12 March 2026
• TBC – 26 March 2026
• Southern Heat: City College Plymouth – 23 April 2026
• Midlands Heat: South and City College Birmingham – 30 April 2026
• Northern Heat: Lancashire TBC – 14 May 2026
• Competition Final: DN Colleges Group, Doncaster College / University Centre – 4 June 2026

In 2025 the competition was held in five College Centres, and concluded with a Grand Final:

Congratulations and well done to these successful competitors!