APCT Quiz
PDA Regional Competition Dates
PDA Apprentice of the Year Competition 2026
To promote excellence early in their careers, apprentice decorators are given the opportunity to demonstrate their painting skills in the annual Apprentice of the Year competition.
The competition offers apprentices/ trainees from across the UK the opportunity to test their painting skills against their peers in a six-hour contest. Competitors are tasked with replicating a given design, testing not only their accuracy and skill, but their ability to perform under pressure.
The competition has grown significantly over the last decade, evolving from a single day event into six regional heats and a Grand Final.
A rising number of entrants prompted the move, as more and more apprentices, colleges and employers recognise the value of the competition experience for young people.
Overall winners and runners-up in Junior and Senior categories will be invited to receive their awards as part of our prestigious Premier Trophy Awards ceremony at Plaisterers’ Hall, London.
The PDA Apprentice/Trainee Trophy Award competitions will be held at:
- Northern Ireland: Workforce Training Services Belfast – 26 February 2026
- Scottish Heat: City of Glasgow College – 12 March 2026
- Welsh Heat – College Merthyr Tydfil – 19 March 2026
- Southern Heat: City College Plymouth – 23 April 2026
- Midlands Heat: South and City College Birmingham – 30 April 2026
- Northern Heat: Preston College – 14 May 2026
- Competition Final: DN Colleges Group, Doncaster College / University Centre – 4 June 2026
