Plasterers apply plaster, render, and decorative finishes to interior and exterior walls, ceilings, and floors in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. The trade covers both traditional float-and-set plastering, dry walling (plasterboard/gypsum board), skimming and finishing, exterior render systems, and decorative moulding and cornicing. In South Africa, the Plasterer trade is registered under CETA (Construction Education and Training Authority). Entry requires a TVET N2 Certificate followed by a 3-year apprenticeship and a Government Certificate of Competency (GCC) trade test. Plasterers are in demand at every construction site — no building is complete without plastered walls — and experienced plasterers who can do fine finishing command consistently strong wages.
Plasterers mix and apply plaster coats to masonry walls and ceilings using trowels and screeds, float surfaces to a smooth or textured finish, hang and tape plasterboard (drywall) partitions and ceilings, apply skim coat finishing plaster, install cornices and decorative mouldings, patch and repair existing plasterwork, and apply exterior render coatings. They use spirit levels and straightedges to ensure plumb and level surfaces.
Grade 10 (Std 8) minimum for TVET N2 entry. No specific subjects required beyond Grade 10, though Mathematics supports surface area calculation and mix ratios. Mathematical Literacy accepted for N-level entry. TVET N2 and N3 Certificates in Plastering required.
Use the free Career Helper APS Calculator to calculate your exact score for each SA university.
- Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
- Durban University of Technology (DUT)
- Vaal University of Technology (VUT)
- Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
Programme names and requirements vary by institution. Always verify directly with the university before applying.
Complete Grade 10 and enrol at a CETA-accredited TVET college for the N2 and N3 Plastering programme. The theory covers plaster types and mixes, surface preparation, internal and external plastering techniques, drywall (plasterboard) systems, decorative finishes, and health and safety. Most TVET colleges in urban and peri-urban areas offer plastering as part of their construction trades programme.
Register as an apprentice with a CETA-accredited plastering contractor or construction company for 3 years. Your apprenticeship combines hands-on site work with N4–N6 college theory. CETA bursaries cover TVET fees and pay a monthly training allowance. Large construction companies building residential estates, commercial buildings, and social housing projects are the main employers of plastering apprentices.
Pass the GCC Plastering trade test to qualify as a certified artisan. Qualified plasterers are needed on every construction project. Specialising in fine finishing skim coat work, decorative mouldings, or exterior render systems (such as ETICS / external insulation and finish systems) increases earning potential. Many experienced plasterers start their own subcontracting businesses.
How do I become a plasterer in South Africa?
Are there bursaries for plastering training in South Africa?
What do plasterers earn in South Africa?
Is plastering in demand in South Africa?
Salary ranges are indicative for South Africa 2026 based on market data. Actual salaries vary by employer, location, and experience.