Description of what the apprentice will do in their role:

In this role, you, the apprentice, will have the opportunity to learn all aspects of modern upholstery to the highest of standards. You will learn how to make a variety of upholstered items, including footstools, headboards, chairs, sofas, etc. All to the highest standard. 

You will also learn all the other vital aspects of beginning your career in upholstery, including using hand and power tools, working to quality standards, working in a manufacturing environment and other areas relating to the trade and business.

You will learn a variety of techniques and skills, some of which include:

• Prepare and assemble different foam and fibre materials onto furniture frames
• Work with various spring systems, including serpentine and webbing
• Stuff cushions with foam to ensure comfort and durability
• Handle a wide range of materials, such as fabrics and faux leathers
• Cut materials precisely for upholstery applications
• Effectively tension and position materials on frames
• Pattern match fabrics to meet specific tolerances
• Apply various trimmings and finishes, including buttons and decorative studs
• Utilize compressed air equipment like staple and pin guns
• Master the use of hand tools including scissors, shears, and hammers
• Create different pleat styles such as envelope and puckering
• Maintain a clean workspace and manage general labour duties
• Organisational skills for managing tasks and inventory
• Work with mechanical elements of recliner chairs
• Conduct service and repair work on furniture
• Manage and organise stock effectively
• Collaborate within a team environment
• Work independently, using initiative to solve challenges

Comprehensive Modern Upholstery Training:

During your Level 2  Furniture Manufacturing - Modern Upholstery apprenticeship course you will receive training both off and on the job. You will be trained at the employer within the workplace and also at WEBS Training in Nottingham on a block release basis for a week at a time, roughly every 10 weeks.

You will learn the underpinning knowledge that runs alongside your practical elements of the training. WEBS Training aim to build on the skills you already have so you reach your full potential both personally and professionally.

Training will be provided in all areas of upholstery to ensure you can create practical and bespoke furniture using both traditional and modern techniques and materials to produce aesthetically pleasing and fit for purpose products.

If you have already achieved GCSE maths and English at Grade 4/C or above or have equivalent qualification you will be exempt from undertaking Functional Skills, however English and maths support will be provided for all apprentices throughout the length of their programme.

Career Progression and Opportunities:

This role offers opportunities to advance to an Advanced Upholsterer at Level 3, along with increased responsibilities within the company.

Desired Skills and Personal Qualities:

• Effective communication skills
• Detail-oriented approach
• Strong presentation skills
• Logical and creative thinking
• Ability to work collaboratively
• Ability to take initiative in complex situations
• Good time keeping

Qualifications

• GCSE or equivalent in English (Grade C/4) - desirable
• GCSE or equivalent in Maths (Grade C/4) - desirable

About the Employer:

A family-owned business which prides itself on making the highest quality furniture, to meet customer expectations, based in Long Eaton, Nottinghamshire. The company produce a range of furniture, along with offering contract and bespoke options to enable all customers to find something which suits their needs.

Pay: £13,312 per year

Schedule:

• Day shift 
• Monday to Thursday, 6:30am - 4:30pm 

Work Location: Workplace