Industry demand for new Dulux Academy live training sessions

Dulux Academy has launched Dulux Academy Live, a series of free online workshops to continue to support the painting and decorating trade despite the challenges of lockdown, with initial courses booking up on the first day.

Dulux Academy Live sees the Dulux Academy team of industry experts share their knowledge in interactive, engaging sessions delivered via video conference - offering an invaluable opportunity for decorating professionals to upskill.

Lasting 45 minutes to an hour, they will consist of a combination of understanding theory, sharing practical solutions and general discussion.

There are a range of sessions now available on subjects from using waterborne paints and tips for wallpapering, to essential maintenance for Spray machines, colour selection and business skills.

Sessions are free to take part in, but participants are required to register in advance via www.duluxacademy.co.uk.

With all the initial places booked in the first 8 hours after launch, more workshops and titles are being scheduled to meet demand. Early indications show popular courses are colour, business skills and paint basics including ‘What is paint’ and ‘Exploring Exteriors’.

The launch has already received a positive reaction, with decorators quick to comment on the new concept. Feedback includes: “That’s awesome work”, “Thanks guys it’s nice to have some good news” and “Excellent selection of courses – well done everyone”.

Vickie Mather, Dulux Academy Lead, says: “The Coronavirus pandemic has had a really significant effect on a vast amount of businesses and individuals working in the painting and decorating industry. Many have been forced to completely down tools amid the current lockdown restrictions. Dulux Academy has been no exception as we’ve had to cancel face to face courses and seek to re-establish ourselves.

“At Dulux Academy we want to ensure we continue to support painters and decorators in the new digital world.

“All decorators will need is the ability to access a video link and we’ll be able to help them hone valuable skills as they adapt to working in the new normal.

“It’s great to see the demand we’ve already had from decorators, with the industry embracing new ways to learn and upskill, and we’re continually expanding our offering to allow as many people as possible to train with us in this new way.”

Launched in 2016, Dulux Academy is the UK’s first dedicated training centre for professional painters and decorators. Approved by City & Guilds and the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), to date it has welcomed more than 7,500 course attendees.

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About Dulux Academy

Dulux Academy is the home of painting and decorating excellence. Our team of industry leading experts deliver learning experiences that celebrate the Dulux brand portfolio and proud heritage, showcase products and application innovation and embrace technology. We support professionals at every stage of their decorating career, providing increased knowledge and understanding, to enable them to meet their personal and professional ambitions.

For more information, please visit www.duluxacademy.co.uk.

About AkzoNobel

AkzoNobel has a passion for paint. We’re experts in the proud craft of making paints and coatings, setting the standard in color and protection since 1792. Our world class portfolio of brands – including Dulux, International, Sikkens and Interpon – is trusted by customers around the globe. Headquartered in the Netherlands, we are active in over 150 countries and employ around 33,500 talented people who are passionate about delivering the high performance products and services our customers expect.

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