Page 301 - JobsPlus - Occupational Handbook

Entry level education / special licences / warrants
To work as an Interior and Commercial Designer and Decorator, one would usually require a qualification in a design related subject which supports an individual in developing their artistic skills further. Full-time training programmes include:
• Advanced Diploma in Art and Design (MCAST) (MQF Level 4)
• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Spatial Design (MCAST) (MQF Level 6)
Part-time/short courses include:
• AutoCAD 3D (MCAST)
• AutoCAD 2D (MCAST)
• Interior Design and Decoration I and II
(MCAST)
Additionally, one can also obtain an Architecture qualification (MQF Level 6) through the University of Malta. While a degree is not usually a pre-entry requirement for a career in design and decoration, it is common practice for Interior and Commercial Designers and Decorators to hold an MQF Level 6 qualification.
For further details on specific entry requirements, it is advisable to consult the respective educational institution’s website.
Qualifications awarded by foreign bodies need to be recognised or pegged with a particular MQF Level by the MQRIC office within NCFHE.
For related training offered by other educational institutions, it is advisable to consult the list of accredited courses on the NCFHE website.
On-the-job training is usually offered by the employer.
Knowledge and skills
Interior and Commercial Designers and Decorators are expected to have:
• Knowledge of design techniques, tools and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings and models
• Knowledge of Computer-Aided Design software (CAD)
• Architectural and wider construction knowledge
• Proficiency in drawing, including perspective drawing and spatial awareness
• Knowledge of building and safety regulations • The ability to write briefs, promote and
explain ideas
• Networking skills and the ability to build
relationships with clients and suppliers
• Project management skills
• Financial skills, especially the ability to work
out costs and keep to set budgets
• Business and marketing skills (in case of
self-employment)
• Knowledge of health and safety procedures
Transferable skills should include:
• Written and verbal communication skills in Maltese and/or English
• Numeracy skills
• Customer care skills
• IT skills
• Organisational and planning skills
• Problem solving and decision making skills • Time management skills
• The ability to work under pressure and
adhere to tight deadlines
• The ability to work independently and as part
of a team
Occupational Handbook 2018
301