Specification

At least six of the following knowledge and skills areas.

Machinery, Tools and Equipment – Set up and operate machinery, tools and equipment used to produce furniture. Understand tools and equipment used

Components – Make components of furniture to specification within acceptable tolerances. Understand how and where components are used

Cutting – Use appropriate equipment to cut materials within acceptable tolerances

Joints – Understand the principles of joints used in making hand-crafted furniture

Veneers and Laminates – Select, prepare and apply veneers to items of furniture

Assembly – Assemble components of furniture. Understand the sequence of assembly and why this is important

Finishing – Apply stains, sealers, base coats and finishes to production furniture

Measure and Mark Out – Measure and mark out materials to specification

Sanding – Sand materials for preparation prior to assembly, post-assembly and de-nibbing. Understand grit sizes and the process of sanding

Cramping – Position components and apply cramps to ensure products are positioned securely to speciícation

Fittings – Prepare and assemble components to speciícation, ínishing and checking the assembly conforms to speciícations

Gluing – Apply adhesives to components. Understand types, methods and processes involved in gluing

Jigs and Templates – Use and maintain jigs and templates for furniture production. Jigs are used to ensure repeatability and accuracy in the production of furniture. These can be hand held or mounted on workbenches.

Edge Banding – Carry out edge-banding process following standard operating procedures. Edge banding is the process of applying a trim or edge to the piece of furniture to make it neat and aesthetically pleasing.

Electrical/Mechanical Fittings – Fit mechanical or electrical components to furniture

Rectification/Rework – Carry out rectification or rework. This includes assessing and repairing items

Safe Handling and Storage – Pack and store products and components following standard operating procedures. Understand and follow procedures for safe handling of products

You must:

• be 16 or over
• not already be in full-time education
• live in England to qualify for Didac funded apprenticeships

You can start an apprenticeship whether you’re starting your career, want a change or you’re upskilling in your current job. You can have a previous qualification like a degree and still start an apprenticeship.

As an apprentice you’ll:

• learn and train for a specific job
• get paid and receive holiday leave
• get hands-on experience in a real job
• be given the opportunity to improve your maths and English skills
• study for at least 20% of your working hours off-the-job
• complete assessments during and at the end of your apprenticeship
• be on a career path with lots of future potential