2013-03-14 11:59:20 - Crown Paints is keen to remind all apprentice and student decorators, and their tutors, supervisors and employers, that the deadline is fast approaching for registering entries for this year’s Crown Trade Apprentice Decorator of the Year Competition which is organised in conjunction with SkillBuild.

This prestigious national competition is the UK’s best-known and longest running showcase of talent for up-and-coming painters and decorators. It’s an opportunity for anyone currently studying for a recognised P&D qualification run by an NVQ/SVQ accredited college, training provider or training scheme, to demonstrate the skills and techniques they have mastered, and to compete against their peers for generous prize money.

Anyone wishing to enter the 2013 regional heats, which will be taking place across the UK during April May and June, MUST complete and submit an online competitor entry form, which can be found on the CITB/SkillBuild website, by 28th March 2013. Entrants do not have to be serving an apprenticeship to participate.

There are two levels of entry in

each of the regional heats. The main event leads to the SkillBuild National final which will take place at the NEC Birmingham as part of the Skills Show organised by WorldSkills UK. The top performers from across the heats will be invited to compete with the chance to receive a unique trophy and a cheque for £1,000. The silver and bronze runners up will receive £500 and £250 respectively.

Students in their first year at college who may not feel ready for the challenge of the main competition can participate at the New Entrant level. This does not lead to a national final but gives entrants the chance to experience the atmosphere of a skills competition without the associated stress, and return to compete in the main event in future years.

In addition to offering financial rewards and the kudos of winning a prestigious title, Crown’s annual skills event, which has now been running for over 35 consecutive years, can offer Britain’s most talented young decorators an exclusive stepping stone into the exciting international competition arena. Participants who show exceptional promise during the event and who meet certain age criteria may be invited to try for selection for the UK team at WorldSkills, the ultimate global skills event for young trainees and apprentices.


Online entry forms for this year’s Crown Trade Apprentice Decorator of the Year Competition must be submitted by 28th March 2013. Enter online at the CITB/SkillBuild website. Please note that competitor acceptances are subject to overall demand and therefore space available. For further information about Crown’s involvement in vocational skills competitions please visit the Crown Trade website, call Crown Trade on 0845 389 9583 or email info@crowntrade.co.uk.