YTA Training

Plastering

By

Earn your ‘Skills for Plastering’ unit accreditation certificate in a mere 10 days at YTA!

There are many potential benefits of becoming a plasterer, such as the job security and the pathway it can provide to earn as much as £38,000 per year with experience. However, you might still understandably feel intimidated by the notion of learning such a trade in the UK. 

By this, we aren’t necessarily referring to what day-to-day life as a qualified plasterer entails, but instead to the difficulty to knowing where to start with your training. 

For an answer to this, why not turn to one of the leading accredited centres for construction training in the UK? Here at YTA in West Yorkshire, we are pleased to make available a 10-day accredited plastering course that can give you a NOCN Cskills unit accreditation certificate for “Skills for Plastering”. 

This, in turn, can provide an invaluable foundation for your future career, as you look to gain further plastering experience and eventually gain an NVQ Level 2 qualification. 

What, exactly, does this 10-day course train and assess you in? 

To be clear: you don’t need to have any prior plastering experience at all to take on this course. 

Alternatively, you might be a capable and experienced tradesperson, but with an interest in adding plastering skills to our repertoire. We even have some enthusiastic DIYers join us on this course, so it really is one that can suit a wide range of people. 

There are three NOCN Ckills Level 1 units in which you will be trained and assessed on this 10-day course: 

  • Prepare And Fix Plasterboard 
  • Non-Solid Internal Backgrounds 
  • Apply Plaster to Solid Backgrounds 

Completing all these units will earn you six Level 1 credits, enough for the unit accreditation certificate. 

A ‘hands-on’ and student-focused plastering training experience 

You can read more about the specific stages of plastering tuition covered on this 10-day course, by clicking through to the dedicated page for it on the YTA website. 

Although a lot of background information is also provided on this course, it is very much an intense, “hands-on” training route. You will be given your own full-size training bay measuring 2.4 metres long and 2.4 metres wide, which you won’t share with anyone else. 

This, along with the low student-to-teacher/trainer ratio, will help you rapidly progress your plastering capabilities and knowledge over your 10 days at our training centre. 

Following the boarding and preparation of your training bay, you will be able to get to grips with plastering a ceiling for the first time. Subsequent areas of focus on the course will include the plastering of walls, over-skimming and repairs, “feathering in”, and eventually more advanced techniques, such as the plastering of arches and curves. 

Another element of the training will be working with K-Rend onto block work, to create a coloured render face that doesn’t need to be painted. 

So, if you’re interested, what step should you take next? 

On completion of this 10-day course, you may decide to set up as a plasterer straight away, or you might favour continuing your training or applying your newly acquired skills and knowledge in some other way. The choice will be very much up to you. 

To find out more about this course offered by one of the UK’s most trusted accredited centres for construction training, simply give us a call now on 01274 682199. You can also get in touch with us via our online enquiry form. 

By

Add plastering to your skillset by taking on a five-day course at YTA

Plastering is one of those trades that seems to have been relevant and in-demand in the UK for as long as anyone can remember. Even by those standards, though, the sheer durability of this career path down the years has been very impressive. 

As of the mid-2020s, the reasons to become a plasterer – or to add plastering to an existing repertoire of skills, for someone who is already a tradesperson – are compelling. 

Why might you think about gaining plastering skills? 

The UK construction industry continues to need skilled tradespeople, including plasterers, due to ongoing housing and infrastructure projects. Plasterers can earn competitive wages in the UK too, with seasoned people in this field potentially commanding as much as £38,000 a year. 

We could go on and on, also mentioning some of the opportunities that plasterers can have at later stages of their careers – for example, to move into supervisory roles or into such related areas as dry lining, heritage conservation, or site management. 

But we think you get the idea by now; taking on one of the various intensive plastering courses in the UK that training centres such as YTA make available, can provide an excellent foundation for a highly rewarding career. 

Just five days spent at our West Yorkshire training centre can take you a long way 

Whether you are a complete newcomer to learning any kind of trade, or you already have a background in another field such as plumbing, tiling, or carpentry, our intensive five-day plastering course at YTA could make a lot of sense as a way of acquiring new skills. 

Not only will you benefit from your own dedicated plastering bay when you join us on this course at our training centre on the Leeds side of Bradford, but we also limit enrolment to six plastering students per instructor. Such a low student-to-teacher ratio will help ensure you get the direct attention, assistance, and guidance you require as you get to grips with plastering. 

As well as your own full-size plastering training bay – and by “full-size”, we mean 2.4 metres high and 2.4 metres wide, which is larger than most small bedrooms and bathrooms – you will be given a set of plastering tools to use for the duration of the training. 

The specific plastering processes you can expect to take on when enrolled on this course will include the plastering of a ceiling, followed by the walls, and then over-skimming and the repair of damaged plaster. 

You will also be taught about “feathering in” – a technique commonly used on larger walls – and board fixing (“dot and dab”) for the purposes of boarding and plastering a block wall. Oh, and as part of the course, you will even be taken to a local trade supplier, so that you can see boards and materials in an environment typical of those you will encounter as a plasterer. 

The end result, on your successful completion of this five-day course, will be that you have a clear practical and theoretical understanding of plastering. This, in turn, will leave you ideally placed to move onto further training, or to set up as a tradesperson who can offer plastering alongside related services such as plumbing, tiling, or kitchen fitting. 

Ask us today about our intensive plastering courses in the UK 

You can find out more about this particular five-day course by consulting the relevant page of the YTA website. You are also welcome to contact us directly by email, or over the phone on 01274 682199, for answers to your questions. Doing so may greatly help you decide whether this training route would be the right one for your ambitions and needs. 

By

3 reasons to choose our 10-day Level 1 course to get your plastering skills up to speed

The application of plaster to walls and ceilings in readiness for decoration and finishing might not seem like the kind of process for which a high level of skill or training would be required. But of course, the UK’s skilled and experienced plasterers know differently to this. 

There are good reasons, after all, why seasoned plasterers in the UK can potentially earn north of £48,000 per year. One of those reasons is that plastering isn’t a job “just anyone” can do; it is a trade that demands thorough attention to detail, a good level of fitness, and the ability to cope with working at height, among many other things. 

If, though, you do believe you have what it takes to become a capable plasterer, you might already be browsing the various plastering courses that renowned construction training centres like YTA make available. 

In that case, why should our 10-day Cskills Level 1 Accredited Plastering Course be one of the options you consider? We’ve set out several of the reasons below. 

  • It’s an ideal course for people with no prior plastering experience 

Broadly speaking, there are two “types” of people who are likely to find our 10-day Level 1 plastering course an excellent fit. 

Those people are people who have no prior experience of plastering or any other skilled trade, and people who are already tradespersons and have an interest in expanding their skillset. 

To be fair, we could also potentially add a third group to this list: enthusiastic DIYers. Anyway, you get the idea; this course won’t present too steep a learning curve even if your current capabilities in plastering are modest or non-existent. 

  • You’ll cover a serious amount of ground over the 10 days 

Even if you’re approaching the trade of plastering via this course from a complete “standing start” (in other words, with no experience at all), you can expect to make rapid progress. 

By “rapid progress”, we mean that on successful completion of this course, you will be equipped with a clear practical and theoretical understanding of plastering. More than that, you will be in a position to set up as a plasterer straight away, if you wish. 

This Level 1 course will see you trained and assessed in three NOCN Cskills Level 1 units – specifically in relation to the preparation and fixing of plasterboard, as well as non-solid internal backgrounds, and the application of plaster to solid backgrounds. 

  • This course will give you more than just enhanced plastering ability 

You will certainly learn about and get to grips with so many different aspects of plastering over the 10 days of our course – encompassing the use of plastering tools, the plastering of walls and ceilings, “feathering in”, the plastering of arches, and more. 

However, this course will be no less valuable on account of the knowledge it gives you about health and safety, business start-up, and even marketing techniques. 

This course is, after all, a starting point. So, there is rightly a strong emphasis on enabling the learner to put down sturdy foundations for subsequent training and the gaining of experience in plastering. 

Would you like to discover more about this accredited training or any of our other plastering courses at YTA? If so, it is a quick and easy process to give us a call on 01274 682199, or to contact us by email, before you make the final decision to book this highly regarded and trusted pathway.  

By

Five Trades in Demand for 2025 (and How YTA Can Help You Master Them)

The UK construction industry is facing a critical skills shortage, with experts highlighting an ageing workforce, a lack of training opportunities, and rising demand for skilled tradespeople. If the goal of building 1.5 million new homes by 2029 is to be realised, tens of thousands of skilled workers need to be trained in key trades. For those seeking a secure and rewarding career, the need couldn’t be clearer.

At YTA Training, we prepare aspiring tradespeople to meet this demand with practical, intensive courses designed for success in the real world. Here are five in-demand trades expected to dominate the landscape in 2025 and how YTA can help you achieve industry-recognised qualifications in these essential fields.

1. Plumbing

Why is plumbing in demand?

With housing construction growing rapidly, the need for plumbers is surging. Plumbing skills aren’t just essential for new builds but also for maintenance and modernisation projects, especially as households adopt energy-efficient technologies like heat pumps and smart water systems.

How can YTA help?

YTA offers 5-day and 10-day Level 1 Plumbing Courses, providing hands-on training in essential skills such as pipework, bathroom fittings, and kitchen plumbing. Completing this course awards you a nationally accredited Level 1 Certificate, setting you on the path to becoming a fully qualified plumber.

Student Success Story:

“I attended the 5-day plumbing course and left with the confidence to tackle plumbing issues myself. The tutors were fantastic, guiding us with useful tips and tricks. I’ve already started using these skills in my property investments!”

Domestic hot water system

2. Carpentry and Joinery

Why is carpentry a key trade?

Carpenters play a central role in homebuilding and renovation, contributing to everything from structural frameworks to fine wood finishes. With 8,000 new carpenters needed annually, this trade offers excellent earning potential and job stability as demand continues to rise.

How can YTA help?

Our 5-day and 10-day Carpentry & Joinery Courses cover everything from tool handling to creating joints, installing door frames, and more. Students completing the 10-day course earn a Cskills Level 1 Certificate in Carpentry & Joinery, equipping them with the skills to confidently enter the workforce.

Student Success Story:

“YTA’s training gave me a fantastic hands-on experience. By the end of 10 days, I was confident working on-site and tackling tasks independently. The trainers combine vast experience with a practical focus on work readiness.”

– Fred Pepper

3. Plastering

Why is plastering vital?

Smooth walls and ceilings remain integral to proper finishes in modern homes. With over 3,000 new plasterers required annually to meet housing targets, this trade sees consistent, long-term demand both in new builds and renovation projects.

How can YTA help?

YTA’s 2-day, 5-day, and 10-day Plastering Courses provide tailored pathways to mastering skimming, bonding, and patchwork. We also offer a Cskills Level 1 Certificate in Plastering, which is ideal for those serious about turning plastering into a full-time vocation.

Student Success Story:

“I can’t speak highly enough of the plastering course at YTA. I left fully equipped to start taking on projects for my family business. The thorough breakdown of techniques and personalised support gave me great confidence.”

– Scott Dyson

Plastering course

4. Tiling

What makes tiling an in-demand skill?

With trends favouring custom and high-end finishes in kitchens and bathrooms, tilers are more sought after than ever. Recent housebuilding initiatives mean thousands of tilers will be needed to meet demand.

How can YTA help?

Perfect your craft with YTA’s 1-day, 5-day, or 10-day Tiling Courses, which cover wall and floor tiling. The 10-day course awards a Cskills Level 1 Certificate in Tiling, proving you’re ready for both domestic and commercial projects.

Student Success Story:

“Before the course, I’d never tiled before. After just 10 days, I felt confident enough to take on any project. The instructor’s hands-on approach and extensive experience made all the difference.”

– Ben Mansell

5. Kitchen Fitting

Why is kitchen fitting in demand?

As one of the most valuable rooms in a home, kitchens are central to both functionality and style in modern living spaces. The demand for skilled kitchen fitters continues to grow as homeowners invest in custom, high-quality renovations.

How can YTA help?

Our 5-day Kitchen Fitting Course teaches you how to measure, cut, and install kitchen units to industry standards. Enjoy training in real-world scenarios that prepare you to start taking on your own projects immediately after completing the course.

Student Success Story:

“The 5-day course was fantastic for building my confidence in kitchen fitting. The practical focus and insider tips from experienced instructors helped me learn efficiently. I’ll definitely come back for more courses!”

– Tommy Taylor

Why Choose YTA?

YTA stands out as one of the premier trade training centres in the UK, offering:

  • Hands-on Training: Get practical skills from experienced and qualified trainers.
  • Small Class Sizes: Personalised attention ensures you get the most from your training.
  • Nationally Recognised Qualifications: All Level 1 courses are accredited by NOCN Cskills.
  • Track Record of Success: Independently verified reviews rate YTA 4.9/5, with 98% recommendation.

Our Promise: Whether you’re starting a brand-new career or refreshing your skills, you’re in excellent hands with YTA.

YTA reviews slider 1140x445

Upskill Today for a Better Tomorrow

Trades are the backbone of thriving industries, and the demand for skilled tradespeople is only set to grow. Get ahead by starting your training at YTA and mastering a trade that’s both fulfilling and lucrative.

Take the first step today – contact us or book your course!

Tel: 01274682199

Click the below TRADE TOOL STORE image to go direct to our Amazon Store Front. with our extensive collection of tools and recommendations.

By

The UK’s Construction Industry is Desperate for Skilled Workers – Here’s Why It Matters

The UK is facing a critical skills shortage in the construction industry. According to a BBC report, tens of thousands of new recruits are needed to meet ambitious housing targets, with demand surging for skilled tradespeople in areas like carpentry, plumbing, tiling, plastering, and kitchen fitting. This shortfall is not just a challenge—it’s a huge opportunity for anyone eager to build a rewarding career in the trades.

If you’re considering a career change or looking to gain practical, high-value skills, there’s never been a better time to enter the industry. YTA Training is at the forefront of helping career changers and aspiring tradespeople seize this moment through comprehensive, hands-on accredited courses.

Why is the demand for skilled tradespeople so high?

The government’s pledge to deliver 1.5 million new homes in England by 2029 underscores the need for construction workers, with an estimated 30,000 recruits required for every 10,000 new houses. Yet, the Home Builders Federation (HBF) reveals that recruitment constraints, such as an ageing workforce, the end of free movement post-Brexit, and a lack of sufficient training opportunities, have left a significant talent gap.

Here’s how this impacts demand among key trades:

  • 20,000 bricklayers urgently required
  • 8,000 carpenters needed, with high demand for joinery
  • 2,400 new plumbers
  • 1,200 professional tilers
  • 3,200 plasterers for essential finishing work
  • 20,000 groundworkers to prepare development sites

This growing demand translates into competitive pay, with experienced bricklayers earning upwards of £45,000 annually, carpenters around £38,000, and electricians close to £44,000. Entering the industry now doesn’t just provide stable work—it offers financial security and long-term growth opportunities.

How YTA Training Prepares You for Success

YTA Training specialises in helping career changers enter the construction sector with confidence. Whether you want to be your own boss or secure employment with leading firms, our accredited training courses deliver the skills and qualifications you need to hit the ground running.

Key Benefits of YTA Training

  • Expert Training: Our courses are taught by seasoned professionals who know what it takes to succeed in the field.
  • Hands-On Learning: With practical, real-world experience as the focus, you’ll be prepared to step straight into the workplace.
  • Accreditation: Gain nationally recognised qualifications that boost your employability and credibility.
  • Career Support: We offer guidance on starting your own business, so you’re not just skilled—you’re set up for success.
  • Flexible Learning Options: Designed to accommodate your schedule, whether you’re currently working or taking the leap full-time.
  • Comprehensive Curriculum: Covering fundamental and advanced skills, we ensure you’re ready for any on-the-job challenge.

Small Class Sizes, Maximum Attention

At YTA Training, small class sizes mean you receive personalised instruction tailored to your needs. Our dedicated instructors ensure you master the practical skills and techniques required to excel in trades like tiling, plastering, plumbing, carpentry and joinery, and kitchen fitting.

Check out our OUTSTANDING REVIEWS HERE

Why Now Is the Best Time to Join the Trades

The skills shortage referenced in the BBC article highlights a once-in-a-generation opportunity to enter a trade where demand far outstrips supply. For decades, there has been a focus on promoting academic pathways over vocational ones, leaving a critical gap in skilled labour. This makes now the perfect time to upskill and take advantage of a booming market.

Whether you’ve always wanted to work with your hands, dreamt of becoming self-employed, or simply aspire to make a tangible difference in your day-to-day work, a trade skill is one of the most fulfilling paths to take. YTA Training ensures that you not only gain the knowledge and experience but also the confidence to thrive in your new career.

Explore Our Course Options

Tiling Courses

Learn the art of wall and floor tiling through practical, hands-on training. From surface preparation to grouting and finishing, you’ll gain the skills to transform any space.

Plastering Courses

Become a pro at applying smooth coatings and creating flawless finishes. Ideal for beginners or those wanting to brush up their techniques.

Plumbing Courses

Understand the essentials of pipework, fittings, and repairs, positioning yourself in a trade with sustained demand.

Carpentry & Joinery Courses

Master everything from basic woodwork to complex joinery tasks, enabling you to build a career defined by craftsmanship.

Kitchen Fitting Courses

Learn how to install cabinetry, countertops, and appliances with precision. You’ll work on full-scale kitchen fitting projects to build confidence.

Join a Growing Community of Skilled Professionals

At YTA Training, we’re not just a training institution; we’re a community. Connect with fellow students and tradespeople who share your passion for the trades, and gain access to a network of like-minded individuals for support and guidance throughout your career.

Take the First Step Today

With the construction industry gearing up to meet ambitious housing targets, the time to act is now. Supply shortages and an ageing workforce have created unprecedented opportunities for newcomers to enter high-demand trades. At YTA Training, we’ll ensure you’re equipped with the skills and certifications to seize this moment.

Your future in the trades starts today. Don’t wait for opportunity to knock—build your own future.

Explore Tiling, Plastering, Carpentry, and More Training Courses at YTA Training!

 

woman in yellow hardhat measuring the wall
Photo by Kindel Media on Pexels.com

By

Discover Your Next Career Step or DIY Adventure with YTA

Are you considering a career change or looking to enhance your DIY skills? Look no further than YTA, where we offer comprehensive courses in carpentry, tiling, plastering, plumbing, kitchen fitting and bricklaying. Designed to empower both career changers and DIY enthusiasts, our courses provide the hands-on experience and industry insights necessary to excel in these trades.

Why Choose YTA?

Practical Hands-On Training

At YTA, we believe in learning by doing. Our courses are led by industry experts who bring real-world knowledge and skills to the training environment. You’ll benefit from practical, hands-on training that prepares you for real scenarios in the trade. This approach ensures you leave our courses not just with theoretical knowledge, but with the confidence to apply your skills immediately.

Comprehensive and Tailored Courses

Whether you’re a career changer intent on entering the trade industry or a DIY enthusiast eager to tackle home projects, our courses are designed to meet your unique needs. From the essentials of carpentry to the nuances of plumbing, our curriculum covers all aspects of the trade to equip you with valuable skills.

We offer 5 day, 10 day and 10 day level 1 courses. Plastering, Tiling, Plumbing, Carpentry & Joinery, Bricklaying and Kitchen Fitting. Courses start every Monday.

Personalised Learning Environment

We prioritise quality over quantity. With small class sizes, each participant receives personalised attention. Our supportive learning environment ensures you can ask questions, seek advice, and receive guidance tailored to your learning style and goals.

Recognised Qualifications

Upon completion, if undertaking a one of our level 1 courses you’ll earn a recognised unit qualification that can bolster your resume and open doors to new career opportunities. Whether you aim to become a skilled tradesperson or enhance your home improvement projects, our courses add tangible value to your skillset.

YTA Plumbing course heating system 001

Guidance for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

If your goal is to become self-employed or set up your own business in the trade, we offer guidance and insights on entrepreneurship within the industry. Our experts will help you understand the market, plan effectively, and establish a successful business.

Access to the Latest Tools and Techniques

Stay ahead with access to the latest tools and techniques in the industry. We ensure our training reflects current industry standards and innovations, keeping you at the cutting edge of your chosen trade. We also recommenced and sell tools HERE

Plastering course

Success Stories

Our participants’ success speaks volumes about the quality of our courses. While specific testimonials can be found on Reviews.co.uk, countless individuals have transformed their careers and enhanced their DIY capabilities through YTA. Many have transitioned into successful tradespeople, while others have mastered the art of home improvements.

YTA reviews slider 1140x445

How to Enrol

Ready to take the next step in your career or DIY journey? Enrolling in a course at YTA Training is simple. Visit our website at www.ytatraining.com or call our centre on 01274682199. Our friendly team is here to assist you with any queries and guide you through the enrolment process.

Don’t wait any longer to pursue your passion or pivot your career. Join YTA Training today and unlock new opportunities in the world of trades.

carpentry joinery course slider 1140x445