Help with the cost of your course
Money shouldn't stop you learning a trade. Depending on your situation, an employer, charity or adviser may be able to pay for some or all of your plastering or rendering course. Here's where to look, and how we can help you apply.
Every funder has its own rules and budget. Please get written approval and agree how the course will be paid for before you pay for a place. Talk to us first and we'll give you everything your funder needs.
Ways to fund your training
Find the route that fits you. If you're not sure, just ask. We're happy to point you in the right direction.
For employers
CITB Employer Networks
If you run a construction business that's registered with CITB, you may be able to get 50% of the course cost back through your local Employer Network. It's a good way to upskill a labourer, apprentice or new starter.
- For CITB-registered employers with 1–249 staff
- Your levy needs to be up to date
- The Employer Network confirms the course and funding, not us
Yearly caps per employer for 2026–27. Firms with 250+ staff use CITB's separate Large Employer Fund. This isn't a discount at checkout: speak to your CITB adviser before booking.
Check CITB eligibility →Aged 16–30
The King's Trust
The King's Trust offers Development Awards to help young people with the costs of training, learning or getting into work. A practical trade course can be a great fit.
- For eligible young people aged 16–30
- The Trust looks at your situation and decides on any award
- We'll send your adviser the course details, dates and a quote
Armed Forces community
Royal British Legion
Serving personnel, veterans and their families can get help from the Royal British Legion with employment, training and money matters. Their employment grants may cover training costs, depending on your circumstances.
- Support depends on your individual eligibility
- Confirm the course and the costs covered before you book
Other routes
Jobcentre, employers & charities
Looking for work? Ask your Jobcentre work coach or employment adviser whether they can fund training that helps you back into work. It has to be agreed by them, and being on benefits doesn't automatically mean a course is free.
Sponsored places. Employers, housing associations, youth groups and charities sometimes pay for a place. We're happy to take referrals for individuals or small groups.
Ask us about a referral →How it works
Three simple steps from first chat to your first day on the wall.
Pick your course
Tell us a bit about you: your experience, what you want to achieve and which course you're interested in. We'll help you choose.
Check with your funder
We'll give you the course details and a quote to take to your funder. Ask them what they'll cover and whether you need to pay anything towards it.
Lock in your date
Once the funding and payment are agreed, get back in touch and we'll confirm your place on a course date that suits you.
Funding questions
The things people ask us most.
Can my course be completely free?
Sometimes. Some people get the full cost covered, others get part of it. Only your funder can confirm what they'll pay, so we can't promise a free place before it's been approved.
Can I book now and claim the money back later?
Don't assume you can. Many funders won't pay for a course that's already been booked or paid for. Check their rules and get approval first.
Is CITB funding taken off at checkout?
No. CITB funding is arranged through your Employer Network, not on our website. Speak to us and your CITB adviser before paying online.
Do the courses include an NVQ?
No. Our courses are hands-on training, and you leave with a certificate of completion showing the level you reached. Funding and qualifications are separate things, so if you need a formal qualification, ask us and we'll talk you through your options.
What if I can't get funding?
You can still pay for the course yourself, or ask your employer if they'll sponsor you. Have a look at our course dates and prices, or get in touch and we'll help you find the right course for your budget.
Talk to us about funding
Not sure where to start? Get in touch. We'll help you work out your options and send whatever your funder needs.
Funding details were checked in October 2026. Schemes, budgets and rules change, and every decision is made by the funder. Listing an organisation here doesn't guarantee funding.