Most people know one part of the plasterer's work: applying wet finishes to walls, ceilings and floors. This is called solid plastering. But that's not all there is to a plasterer's trade. There's also fibrous plastering, which involves making ornamental plasterwork in a workshop or on site - that's the kind of work you see on the ceilings of decorative buildings.
Are you suited to a career as a plasterer?
Firstly you can't be afraid of ladders - or of working indoors! And as a plasterer, you'll need to be willing to put in the effort to become an expert at using the specialist tools of the trade.
Entry requirements and training for plasterers
There are no set entry requirements for training as a plasterer, although GCSEs / Standard Grades in Maths, English and Technology may be helpful for the calculations and measurements.
Most plasterers start off with an apprenticeship, which enables you to earn while you learn! Entry to an apprenticeship scheme will usually involve a selection test. Many colleges offer courses in plastering, awarding you with an NVQ / SVQ upon completion.
Prospects for plasterers
Choose a career in plastering and you will always be in demand. If you gain enough experience as a plasterer, you'll be in a very good position to start up your own business. There is also a good grounding for progression into technical, supervisory and managerial roles. You should get the opportunity to travel around, and sometimes work overseas.
Pay for plasterers
The Building and Allied Trades Joint Industrial Council (BATJIC) agrees wage rates annually. Pay rates for apprentices in Scotland are set by SBATC. A good basic wage is available and may be boosted by incentive schemes in some companies. Many plasterers progress to supervisory roles, while some choose to set up their own business.
Related links
Case study: Graham Johns, aged 20, NVQ 2 in plastering