WAEC Syllabus for Painting and Decorating 2026/2027- Complete Guide and key focus areas for Candidates and teachers planning for WAEC examination on painting and decorating.
The WAEC syllabus for Painting and Decorating 2026/2027 is an official guide designed for students offering Painting and Decorating under the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). This vocational and technical subject equips candidates with practical skills, theoretical knowledge, and professional standards required in the painting and decoration industry.
This article provides a detailed and easy-to-understand breakdown of the syllabus, examination structure, key content areas, objectives, and practical study tips to help candidates prepare effectively for the examination.

An overview of practical skills and topics outlined in the WAEC syllabus for painting and decorating.
Overview of WAEC Painting and Decorating
Painting and Decorating is a trade-based subject under WAEC Technical and Vocational Education. It focuses on:
Surface preparation and finishing
Use of painting tools and materials
Decorative techniques
Workplace safety and professionalism
The syllabus is structured to balance theory, practical skills, and industry-relevant knowledge, preparing students for both examinations and real-world employment.
Aims and Objectives of the WAEC Syllabus for Painting and Decorating
The syllabus aims to enable candidates to:
Understand basic painting and decorating principles
Identify and use painting tools and materials correctly
Apply surface preparation and finishing techniques
Demonstrate safe working practices
Produce neat and professional decorative finishes
Structure of the WAEC Painting and Decorating Examination
The WAEC Painting and Decorating examination typically consists of three papers:
Paper 1: Objective Test
Multiple-choice questions
Tests theoretical knowledge and safety practices
Covers tools, materials, and basic principles
Paper 2: Essay / Theory Paper
Short-answer and structured questions
Focuses on explanation of techniques, materials, and processes
Paper 3: Practical Examination
Hands-on painting and decorating tasks
Assesses skill, accuracy, and workmanship
Emphasizes safety and finishing quality
Detailed WAEC syllabus for Painting and Decorating 2026/2027
1. Safety Practices and Workshop Organization
Candidates are expected to understand:
Personal protective equipment (PPE)
Safe handling of tools and materials
Workshop cleanliness and organization
Accident prevention and basic first aid
Safety is a critical part of the syllabus and examination.
2. Tools and Equipment
This section covers:
Brushes and rollers
Scrapers and putty knives
Spray equipment
Ladders and scaffolding
Candidates should know identification, uses, and maintenance of each tool.
3. Materials and Finishes
Topics include:
Types of paints (emulsion, gloss, enamel, etc.)
Primers, sealers, and undercoats
Thinners and solvents
Decorative finishes
Understanding material properties is essential for quality work.
4. Surface Preparation
This section focuses on:
Cleaning and sanding surfaces
Filling cracks and holes
Removing old paint
Preparing wood, metal, and masonry surfaces
Proper surface preparation ensures durable finishes.
5. Painting Techniques
Candidates will study:
Brush and roller techniques
Spray painting methods
Application of primers and topcoats
Achieving smooth and even finishes
6. Decorative Techniques
This area includes:
Textured finishes
Stenciling
Colour mixing and matching
Simple design patterns
Creativity and neatness are emphasized.
7. Colour Theory
Topics covered:
Primary, secondary, and tertiary colours
Colour harmony and contrast
Colour selection for different environments
8. Maintenance and Repairs
Candidates should understand:
Repairing damaged paintwork
Maintenance of painted surfaces
Identifying common paint defects
9. Estimation and Costing
This section examines:
Measuring surfaces
Estimating material quantities
Basic costing and budgeting
10. Professional Ethics and Career Opportunities
Topics include:
Work ethics
Customer relations
Self-employment opportunities
Career paths in painting and decorating
SEE ALSO:
WAEC Syllabus for Islamic Studies
Recommended Study Tips for WAEC Painting and Decorating
Practice Regularly – Practical skills are crucial
Understand Safety Rules – Always prioritize safety
Learn Tool Identification – Know their correct uses
Follow Proper Techniques – Practice neat finishes
Revise Past Questions – Understand exam patterns
Importance of the WAEC Syllabus for Painting and Decorating
The syllabus:
Guides students on exam content
Helps teachers plan effective lessons
Prevents unnecessary reading
Prepares students for skilled employment
Download the PDF for WAEC Syllabus for painting and decorating 2026/2027
Why Download the WAEC painting and decorating Syllabus?
- To understand the exam format and content
- To prepare effectively for the exam
- To get familiar with the marking scheme and grading system
Click below 👇 to View and download PDF
WAEC SYLLABUS PAINTING AND DECORATING PDF (DOWNLOAD)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – WAEC Syllabus for Painting and Decorating 2026/2027
1. What is the WAEC Syllabus for Painting and Decorating for 2026/2027?
The WAEC Painting and Decorating syllabus for 2026/2027 is the official guide that outlines the topics, practical skills, and learning objectives candidates must study for the Painting and Decorating examination under the WASSCE.
2. Has the WAEC Syllabus for Painting and Decorating changed for 2026/2027?
The core structure of the syllabus remains largely the same, but candidates are advised to study the latest syllabus to note any updates or emphasis changes.
3. Is WAEC Painting and Decorating a practical subject?
Yes. Painting and Decorating is a vocational subject that includes a practical examination where candidates demonstrate hands-on skills.
4. What type of questions are asked in WAEC Painting and Decorating?
The examination includes objective questions, theory or essay questions, and practical tasks that test safety practices, tools, materials, and finishing techniques.
5. Do I need prior experience to pass WAEC Painting and Decorating?
Prior experience is helpful but not compulsory. With proper teaching, regular practice, and understanding of the syllabus, candidates can perform well.
6. What tools and materials should I know for the exam?
Candidates should be familiar with painting brushes, rollers, scrapers, ladders, spray equipment, paints, primers, and basic decorative materials.
7. Is safety important in the WAEC Painting and Decorating exam?
Yes. Safety practices, including the use of personal protective equipment and proper handling of tools, are a major part of both theory and practical assessments.
8. Can WAEC Painting and Decorating lead to a career after school?
Yes. The subject provides employable skills and prepares candidates for careers in painting, decorating, construction finishing, or self-employment.
9. Does WAEC repeat questions in Painting and Decorating exams?
Exact questions are rarely repeated, but similar topics and practical tasks often appear across different examination years.
Conclusion
The WAEC syllabus for Painting and Decorating 2026/2027 is designed to equip students with practical, technical, and professional skills required in the painting and decorating industry. By studying the syllabus carefully, practicing regularly, and following safety guidelines, candidates can excel in the examination and build a strong foundation for future careers.


