Occupational profile - plastering
Information on apprenticeships in the construction crafts (plastering) industry, including what’s involved, skills and knowledge needed and progression routes for apprentices.
About plastering
Plastering involves carrying out advanced skilled work. The level 3 plasterer can do complex job tasks, requiring high levels of practical skills and knowledge, as well as managing their own work and leading small teams.
The main differences between a level 2 trowel occupations plasterer are that the level 3 plasterer has responsibility for managing their own and other people’s work, as well as being required to complete complex and non-standard work.
This apprenticeship involves completing mandatory and optional units.
Skills and knowledge needed
On completion of this apprenticeship, level 3 plasterers will have the same occupational skills as a level 2 trowel occupations plasterer but will also be able to understand the technical principles of advanced plastering and to use a range of advanced trade skills, which allow them to carry out complex work to highly skilled standards and tolerances.
Level 3 plasterers will be able to explain and carry out:
- the methods of plastering arches and curved work
- the principles of plastering plasterboard ceilings and walls, taping joints, skimming ceilings
- patch repairs to ceiling and wall
- apply scratch coat and top coat
- decorative features
National occupational standards (NOS)
Every framework must be underpinned by national occupational standards (NOS) which will indicate the standards of performance individuals must achieve when carrying out functions in the workplace, together with specifications of the underpinning knowledge and understanding. Behaviours may be detailed within or alongside the NOS.
Core NOS
| Unique registration number (URN) | Title of the occupational standard |
|---|---|
VR209 | Confirm work activities and resources for the work |
VR210 | Develop and maintain good working relationships |
VR211 | Confirm the occupational method of work |
VR641 | Conform to general workplace health, safety and welfare |
Available NOS
| Unique registration number (URN) | Title of the occupational standard |
|---|---|
VR68 | Install direct bond dry linings |
VR71 | Install mechanically fixed plasterboard |
VR74 | Produce fibrous plaster components |
VR76 | Apply solid plaster to complex internal surfaces |
VR77 | Produce complex external rendering finishes |
VR82 | Install complex fibrous plaster components |
VR83 | Repair complex fibrous plaster components |