To promote excellence early in their careers, the PDA gives apprentice decorators the opportunity to demonstrate their painting skills in our annual Apprentice of the Year competition. The competition encourages apprentices to put their skills to the test and see if their stamina, accuracy and creativity match up to those of their peers.

Competitors from across the UK undertake a six-hour challenge incorporating intricate designs that require precise setting out and scaling up of detailed drawings. Apprentices are then tasked with using a range of techniques including freehand cutting in of curves, circles and straight lines, making and applying a stencil and creating broken colour effects such as rag-rolling and sponging.

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 and the coveted title, PDA Apprentice of the Year.

Overall winners and runners-up in Junior, Senior and Senior Plus 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
• Welsh Heat – College Merthyr Tydfil – 19 March 2026
• Southern Heat: City College Plymouth – 23 April 2026
• Midlands Heat: South and City College Birmingham – 30 April 2026
• Northern Heat: Preston College – 14 May 2026
• Competition Final: DN Colleges Group, Doncaster College / University Centre – 4 June 2026

2026 Apprentice of the Year Competition

Congratulations and well done to these successful competitors!