BFM and Furniture Makers support the development of the furniture apprenticeship

An industry-specific Level 3 Furniture Apprenticeship has officially been approved.

The training scheme, which has been funded and supported by both the British Furniture Manufacturers (BFM) and The Furniture Makers’ Company (FMC), will cover a spectrum of jobs including bespoke furniture maker, advanced upholsterer and advanced CNC technician.

Approval on the furniture designer module is expected to follow shortly.

Jackie Bazeley, BFM md, said: “Apprenticeships are a great way to bring a fresh perspective into a business and with substantial training and development, are beneficial to both the employee and employer. The new scheme will also present the industry with the opportunity to advance individuals to a level that will help fill the skills gaps.”

Jonny Westbrooke, FMC ceo, said: “The Level 2 Apprenticeship Standard was successfully developed and given ministerial approval last year, thanks to the support of the furnishing industry. A Level 3 Standard is now desperately needed for school leavers who meet the entry requirements for the higher level. We are pleased that approval has been granted so work can now start on the development of the Bespoke Furniture Maker, Advanced Upholsterer and Advanced Furniture CNC Technician standards.”

For further information, visit www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/