Master Certificate | Professional Recognition

Applications are welcomed from people working within the furnishing industry who can demonstrate the skills, knowledge and experience appropriate to the level for which they are applying. Applicants should be able to provide evidence of their professional development, achievements and responsibilities.

The three levels recognise different stages of professional development. The Apprentice Certificate recognises people developing their skills and establishing themselves within their profession. The Journeyman Certificate recognises experienced individuals with substantial technical knowledge and professional responsibility. The Master Certificate is the highest level and recognises exceptional expertise, experience and a commitment to passing skills and knowledge on to others.

No. You do not need to be a member of The Furniture Makers’ Company to apply. The scheme is designed to recognise skills and achievement across the wider furnishing industry.

Applications are assessed on an individual’s overall skills, knowledge, experience and professional achievements rather than on qualifications alone. Relevant qualifications, apprenticeships and professional training can be used as supporting evidence as part of an application.

Applicants should provide evidence that demonstrates their skills, experience and level of professional responsibility. This may include qualifications and training, employment history, examples of work and achievements, responsibilities within their role and evidence of supporting the development of others where relevant to the level being applied for.

Applications are assessed against the criteria for the relevant certificate level. The assessment considers the applicant’s technical knowledge, professional experience, level of responsibility and contribution to their profession, as well as their commitment to developing and passing on skills where appropriate.

The application fee depends on the level being applied for. The current fees are £90 for an Apprentice Certificate, £160 for a Journeyman Certificate and £230 for a Master Certificate.

Successful applicants are invited to a prestigious annual presentation ceremony in the City of London. In recent years, Master Certificates have been presented at Mansion House in the presence of the Lord Mayor of London.

Yes. Employers are encouraged to identify individuals whose skills, experience and contribution deserve professional recognition. Depending on the application process, the individual will still need to provide the information and supporting evidence required for assessment.