KB Decorating Skills Centre opens at Colchester Institute

Builders Merchant Kent Blaxill has opened up its Decorating Skills Centre to its first group of students at the Colchester Institute for the beginning of the new term.

The centre used a range of Dulux paint products for its refurbishment supplied through Kent Blaxill. Its exterior was painted by local decorator Terry Hollingsworth, and bears KB signage.

The Decorating Skills Centre operates 18 work bays and has room to accommodate up to 30 full-time students, with local schools also looking to utilise the facilities over the coming term.

Dedicated learning space

Adam Ward, director of faculty for construction and engineering technologies at Colchester Institute, said: “The link-up is a really positive experience for everybody. 

The new Decorating Skills Centre is an exciting, dedicated learning space for our students. The sponsorship enables us to provide better materials for the students, and the better the materials the more valuable the learning experience.” 

Kent Blaxill’s involvement will not end with the centre launch, as it plans to hot talks on topics including protective coatings and brushes, and will be supplying decorative materials to the centre, in addition to arranging visits and work experience at KB Colchester.

Combating the skills shortage

Janine Scarff, Kent Blaxill territory manager, commented: “With a local skills shortage it is great to be able to work in partnership with our local college to support in training the next generation of painters and decorators. 

“We are keen to support both students and staff to enhance their knowledge of specialist products, whilst also providing a link between tradespeople and trainees.”

Visit the Kent Blaxill website