Hull Training and Adult Education (HTAE) could have its very own national award winner next month.
Jazzmin Smith, 21, is a Level 2 Painting and Decorating learner who has secured her place in the national final of the 2025 Apprentice Paperhanger of the Year Competition, taking place in London on Saturday 4 October.
Jazzmin impressed judges with her precision, skill and attention to detail during an intense six-hour wallpapering challenge in the regional heats at Doncaster College in June.
The competition is run by the Painting and Decorating Association and Jazzmin will discover whether she is the nation’s top apprentice paper hanger at next month’s prestigious networking event and gala dinner.
She began her apprenticeship with HTAE almost two years ago and is due to complete her learning in October.
Jazzmin, who works with D&D Painting and Decorators, said: “I’m proper buzzing – absolutely chuffed! Going into the competition, I didn’t think I’d do very well.
“I even ran out of paper and had to splice to make up for it, but I worked right up to the last second and gave it my all. Proving myself wrong has boosted my confidence massively and made me stronger minded.
“I’ve always been creative and I’ve found decorating really rewarding – it’s calming and allows me to bring my creativity into my work. I’d love to progress to Level 3 with HTAE, focusing on wall coverings, special effects and murals as the next step in my career.
“HTAE offers massive amounts of support, with great facilities and tutors who encourage us to get involved in competitions.
“My company is also really supportive and I learn so much from colleagues as well. I put this success down to them.”
Matthew Bibby, vocational painting and decorating tutor at HTAE, put Jazzmin forward to take part in the competition.
He said: “I am over the moon. To have learners who take the art and craft of decorating this seriously is a pleasure for me to witness. Jazzmin tries hard, produces good work and is a pleasure to train.”
Cllr Linda Tock, portfolio holder for Hull Training at Hull City Council, added: “For an apprentice to be shortlisted for a national award is testament to the fantastic work put in by our Hull Training and Adult Education team.
“It also demonstrates tremendous dedication from Jazzmin and hope she claims the award she deserves. The whole council is behind you, Jazzmin.”
Apprenticeships with HTAE are a fantastic way to gain hands-on experience, build confidence, and step into the world of work with real skills and qualifications.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to retrain, our programmes offer tailored support, expert tutors, and strong employer links to help you succeed.
To find out more about apprenticeship opportunities with HTAE, visit Hull Training and Adult Education or contact the team here.
