At Diamond Decorators, we believe that investing in people is just as important as delivering high-quality decorating solutions.
As an award-winning, family-run commercial decorating business with over 25 years of experience in social housing projects, we are committed to not only enhancing properties but also supporting the communities we serve.
One of the key ways we do this is through our apprenticeship programme, which plays a vital role in addressing the skills shortage in the construction industry while contributing to the local economy.
Why apprenticeships matter
The UK construction industry is facing a shortage of skilled tradespeople, and apprenticeships are one of the most effective ways to address this issue. They ensure that essential skills are passed down and developed in real working environments for young people.
As a business, we have seen first-hand how apprentices improve productivity and bring fresh energy to our teams. According to industry research, 78% of employers report that apprenticeships boost overall productivity (source Painting and Decorating News https://www.paintinganddecoratingnews.co.uk/decorating-industry/general-decorating-industry/apprentices-should-you-take-one-on/).
For us, the benefits go beyond business growth – our apprentices contribute to our success while gaining skills that set them up for life.
The Diamond Decorators apprenticeship programme
We take a structured approach to training, ensuring that every apprentice gets the most out of their time with us:
Work placement first
We offer a two-week work placement before apprentices join full-time, allowing them to gain on-site experience and decide if this is the right career path for them.
Earn while you learn
Our apprentices complete an 18-month programme, attending college one day a week while gaining hands-on experience on-site.
Mentorship and support
Every apprentice is assigned a mentor, ensuring they receive expert guidance throughout their training.
Skill development
Apprentices gain experience in all aspects of painting and decorating, including spraying techniques, wallpapering, fireproof coatings, and specialist finishes.
Real stories, real impact
Our apprentices are at the heart of what we do, and their success stories speak for themselves:
Jamie: “I am finding my apprenticeship brilliant; I am learning new things and techniques every day with the help of a great bunch of staff behind the scenes and supervisors on site. I have learnt numerous new things over the past few months including spraying kitchen cabinets, learning how to hang thermal lining paper, and also sealant.”
Jimmy T: “Over the past nine months, being part of Diamond has been a great experience as a Painter and Decorator apprentice.
I have learned all the basics from prepping walls to learning how to use various paints on different surfaces which helps me understand what quality is required, especially on site.
This experience has been helpful as I work with a great team, and I am looking forward to progressing even further and being a part of Diamond’s team.”
Macca: “I am really enjoying my apprenticeship with Diamond Decorators. It has taught me a lot of things I never thought I would learn in the painting and decorating trade.
I have learnt various painting and decorating techniques along with other skills which include fire boarding and re-sealing windows.
The team at Diamond is very helpful as all they want is the best for us, they help us progress in many ways. If we have questions or need guidance, there is always someone there to help and work a way around any obstacle we come across.
Overall, Diamond is a brilliant company and one of the best to get you going on your painting and decorating apprenticeship.”
Pash: “My apprenticeship with Diamond Decorators has been a great experience as they have taught me many things I never knew I would be able to do from spraying houses to taking charge of jobs till completion.
They have helped me overcome any challenges that may come my way and are patient with me. Overall, they have helped me become a better decorator and are a great company to do an apprenticeship with as they give you opportunities to grow and expand your skills.”
National Apprenticeship Week 2025
From February 10th to 16th, 2025, we celebrated National Apprenticeship Week, highlighting the theme “Skills for Life.” This was an opportunity to showcase how apprenticeships shape careers, strengthen businesses, and contribute to the UK economy.
As part of National Apprenticeship Week, Kerry Gilham, Director of Diamond Decorators, spoke at an event at Tameside College, where she shared insights into the value of apprenticeships and how Diamond Decorators nurtures young talent.
Addressing a room full of students eager to start their careers in painting and decorating, Kerry highlighted the real-world benefits of apprenticeships, from hands-on experience to earning while learning. She also spoke about the structured support provided at Diamond Decorators, ensuring apprentices not only gain technical skills but also develop confidence, work ethic, and career progression opportunities.
During her talk, Kerry emphasised how the construction industry needs more skilled tradespeople and how apprenticeships play a crucial role in bridging the skills gap. She outlined Diamond Decorators’ commitment to mentoring young professionals, providing them with on-site training, college support, and opportunities to work on real projects from day one.
The talk was well received by students and faculty alike, with Tameside College sharing their appreciation:
“Many thanks for coming to talk with the students yesterday. The talk was stimulating and informative and kept the students’ attention well. All the students really enjoyed meeting with you, and your tips for career progression were invaluable.
Thank you for taking time out of your day to get involved in National Apprenticeship Week – it is very much appreciated by the college. What you offer your apprentices at Diamond Decorators is second to none.
Please pass my thanks onto Bryan also.”
Supporting the local economy
As a Manchester-based business, we are committed to creating opportunities for local people. We employ staff from Manchester, Salford, Tameside, and Cheshire, ensuring that job opportunities stay within the community.
We also recognise that some individuals face barriers to employment. That’s why we actively consider applicants who have been out of work for extended periods and provide training opportunities for those without formal qualifications. Our goal is not just to hire, but to upskill and support long-term career development.
Our apprentices go on to become qualified tradespeople, many of whom continue to work with us or within the local community, further strengthening the region’s construction industry.
Looking ahead
Apprenticeships are an investment – not just in individuals, but in the industry and the local economy. At Diamond Decorators, we are proud to play a role in developing the next generation of tradespeople.
If you are a Housing Association, local council, or contractor looking for a socially responsible painting and decorating partner, we would love to work with you. Our commitment to apprenticeships, sustainability, and high-quality workmanship makes us a trusted name in the industry.
To learn more about our work and social values, click here.
For more information, contact our team today on 0161 399 0727 or email us at info@diamond-decs.com