Red Oak Painting Completes Its 1st-Ever Painting 101 Program for High School Students

Red Oak Painting is proud to announce the successful completion of our 1st-ever Painting 101 Program designed specifically for high school students.

Over six weeks, youth from across Peel Region committed their Saturdays to learning real trade skills, building confidence, and experiencing the world of professional painting from the inside out.

This inaugural cohort marked a meaningful milestone — not only for Red Oak Painting, but for the students who showed up eager, focused, and ready to take on new challenges every week.

What the Students Learned

Throughout the program, students were introduced to the full spectrum of residential and commercial painting fundamentals. Their learning included:

1. Theory and Knowledge Building

  • Understanding paint types, primers, coatings, and tools

  • Learning safety standards and Ontario labour guidelines

  • Trade terminology and site etiquette

2. Hands-On Professional Training

Across the practical portion of the program, students learned how to:

  • Prepare walls through patching, sanding, and surface repair

  • Apply primer and high-quality finishes

  • Paint feature walls and accent designs

  • Remove and refinish surfaces

  • Use tools and equipment the way pros do

  • Execute clean edges, taping techniques, and millwork preparation

The cohort also completed a permanent accent wall installation at the Susan Fennell Sportsplex Youth Hub — a highlight of the program and an artistic mark they leave behind for the community.

Growing Demand for More High School Cohorts

Since launching this pilot, interest has grown rapidly. Schools, parents, youth programs, and community leaders have all expressed enthusiasm about bringing Painting 101 to their students. We are thrilled to share that additional cohorts are already being planned for 2026. This movement is bigger than painting — it’s about:

  • Creating meaningful pathways into the trades

  • Opening doors for youth who want hands-on learning

  • Building community confidence and skills

  • Exposing students to career possibilities they may not have considered

Calling All Schools, Educators & Administrators

If your school is interested in hosting a Painting 101 Program in 2026, we want to hear from you!
We can bring the program directly to your students, with full curriculum, instructional materials, and an experienced team.

📩 Schools: Contact us at info@redoakpainting.com to begin the conversation.

Invitation to Sponsors and Community Partners

To expand our reach and continue providing high-quality training, we welcome organizations and sponsors who are passionate about:

  • Youth empowerment

  • Trades education

  • Community development

  • Workforce readiness

Support from aligned partners helps ensure that more students can access hands-on training that can shape their futures.

📩 Sponsors: Connect with us at leo@redoakpainting.com to explore partnership opportunities.

Conclusion

Our first high school Painting 101 Program was a tremendous success — one that exceeded expectations and set the foundation for an impactful 2026.

We’re honoured to play a role in building the next generation of skilled painters and tradespeople. This is just the beginning!

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