BACK FOR A SECOND YEAR…
This February & March, we will be hosting two Regional Heats in search of the best up-and-coming industry talent.
Level 2 and 3 Painting & Decorating learners and apprentices from colleges nationwide will compete in a live practical project for the chance to become the Learner of the Year. Learners must be 25 years or younger at the time of entry.
Regional Heats
South
Thursday 26th February 2026 – Bath College, Somer Valley Campus, Wells Road, Westfield, Radstock, BA3 3RW
North
Thursday 5th March 2026 – Wigan & Leigh College, Pagefield Campus, Walkden Avenue, Wigan, WN1 2JH
Grand Final
Each Regional Winner and Runner-Ups will go on to compete in the Grand Final in April.
This competition is designed to encourage and inspire future generations of Painting & Decorating tradespeople and help build their confidence within the industry.
There are fantastic prizes up for grabs, and every competitor receives a certificate to celebrate their achievement.
This year’s competition is proudly supported by an outstanding line-up of sponsors, including our Headline sponsor Johnstone’s Paints, Tesa UK, Ciret, Snickers Workwear and our official Judging Partner the Association of Painting Craft Teachers (APCT).
Wondering why you should enter?
Look no further…
Look no further…
Great for confidence
Opportunity to meet other learners in the same trade
Learn new skills
Experience using industry-leading products
Huge prize hauls up for grabs
If you already have a learner in mind and are ready to apply, reserve their space today…it’s first-come, first-served!
Please note that only one participant can be entered per college or campus until 31st October. After this date, colleges are able to put forward an additional participant on a first-come, first-served basis.
Participants who have previously reached the BTX Painting & Decorating Learner of the Year Grand Final are not eligible to enter the competition again.
Our Competition Terms and Conditions have been updated. Please ensure that you have a read of them here.
You can even check out last year’s test here.
BTX Painting & Decorating Learner of the Year 2025 Final Photos
Want to relive this year’s competition? Check out the photos here!
Want to get involved in Learner of the Year?
Register your interest for 2026 here
