If you have considered a career in woodworking and furniture making from a young age, you may now be wondering how you go about making that a reality.

There is no one size fits all when it comes to training as a furniture maker, and it’s crucial to take the path that best suits your career ambitions.

Here we share some of the avenues you can take to begin a career in woodworking.

College & University

Degrees in furniture design and creation are now readily available in several universities across the UK. Undergraduate courses typically offer an insight into the theory and practice of product design, while students are given the opportunity to work on various projects throughout.

It is vital that prospective students assess the course syllabus, the practical experience offered throughout, and career opportunities available afterwards to ensure the programme aligns with their goals.

Apprenticeships

Aspiring woodworkers may look to apprenticeships to learn the trade from industry professionals while earning an income, albeit minimal.

Working in a commercial environment, apprenticeship schemes permit the individual to fully immerse themselves in the business of woodwork, while honing their craft and refining their skills.

Apprentices are tasked with jobs around the workshop, from sweeping to machine maintenance and, as such, are employable at the end of their placement.

It is worth keeping in mind that apprenticeships are highly competitive and often require some level of previous experience in woodwork or design.

the Professional Course

Our internationally renowned Professional Course is designed to give students the skills, knowledge and confidence to establish a career in woodworking and furniture making.

An intensive course, the syllabus covers everything from practical cabinet making and design, to furniture restoration and commercial skills. Led by industry experts, the Professional Course leaves graduates with the equivalent knowledge of at least three years at college and, more importantly, with vast practical experience and significantly higher employability.

As a result, we have seen graduates go on to become accomplished furniture makers, establish successful woodworking businesses and even join the team as tutors at the Chippendale School. No previous experience is required, just an interest in woodwork!

For young, local people, from low-income or underprivileged backgrounds, we have a bursary. This grant is for young people whose finances prevent them from attending the course.

As a young person looking to enter the woodworking industry, the most beneficial thing you can do is research your options. Whichever path you choose, make sure that you get the practical experience to prepare you for a career in woodwork and furniture making. There is no substitute for hard work, and you will get out of it what you put in. We believe in learning by doing, trial and error, making mistakes and learning from them. It will never be perfect the first time you try something, accept that but know that the next attempt will be better.

Interested in undertaking our Professional Furniture Making Course to kickstart a career in woodwork? Click here for more information