In theory, one can become a professional tiler in the UK without any formal qualifications. However, let's be honest, you probably won't be picking up much work without a qualification or two to your name. So, we want to walk you through the process to become a professional tiler in the UK.
The Studying Process
Before you can take on your own tiling jobs, you need to study to be a tiler. As we said before; since there are no real formal qualifications required to be a tiler, you have a few options available to you.
1. College Courses
If you have just left secondary school, then you may want to jump into a college course. You may need to find a vocational college in your local area that offers tiling courses, but even 'normal' colleges may have tiling courses that you can follow.
You will need to complete two levels here. You will begin with the Level 1 Certificate followed by a Level 2 Diploma. Of course, the level 2 certificate will be building upon what you learned with the certificate.
If you did well enough at GCSE level, then you will likely be able to jump right into the Level 2 diploma (normally requires 2 or more GCSEs at A* to D). Otherwise, you will need the Level 1 certificate. The level 1 will teach you a lot of the skills required to be a professional tiler including maths.
College courses may be the best option for those aged 16 to 18. This is because it will be completely free to attend.
2. Apprenticeships
If you prefer to get stuck into earning cash as soon as possible, then an apprenticeship could be a good option.
With an apprenticeship, you will be working under another experienced tiler. They legally have to pay you for the work (apprenticeship rates are a little bit less than minimum wage)
Of course, apprenticeships may have a downside. This is because what you learn will be at the whim of the person you are working under. They are running a business, which means they may not have the time to teach you everything that you need to know. Not to mention the fact that they may not be the most effective at training people.
Still, if you perform well, you can secure a job right out of your apprenticeship.
3. Tiling Training Centres
For many, the quickest route to becoming a professional tiler is to head to a tiling training centre. For example, UK Tiling Courses has a plethora of courses that a person can join.
The major benefit of attending a tiling training centre is the fact that you can often wrap up the course in a matter of days. Very few courses last more than a couple of weeks.
These intensive courses will teach you everything that you need to know about becoming a professional tiler. Shortly after you have finished your course, you will be ready to find work.
What Should You Do When You Are Qualified?
You have a few routes available to you once you have become qualified as a tiler. The route you choose will be dependent on your own goals.
Start Your Own Tiling Company
Though competitive, there will always be room for new tiling businesses that provide an outstanding service.
Many tilers start by becoming self-employed and some go on to hire other skilled tradesmen. Although owning a business has a high earning potential, starting a company is not going to be for everybody. Not only will you need to know about tiling, but you should also have a solid idea about marketing, accounting, and customer relations.
Look For Employment
Even if you plan to eventually start your own tiling company, it could be useful to seek skilled employment first. This way you can learn the ins and outs of the tiling business, something that you may struggle to pick up in college, for example. Further to this, employment offers security that isn’t guaranteed for those who are self-employed.
While there are no qualifications required to become a tiler in the UK, completing a course will refine your skills and help you find employment. For more information about finding a job and what it takes to become a tiler, visit the National Careers ”Tilers” page below:
