unravel the school’s story

School Life

SCHOOL LIFE

World Famous Furniture School

The Chippendale International School of Furniture provides a supportive and collaborative community – a home away from home for every single student. Since 1985, over 750 students have come from around the world to study in the Fraser family’s one-of-a-kind school near the picturesque village of Gifford, at the foot of the rolling Lammermuir Hills.

The school has a truly international appeal with students from all over the world, including the USA, Central and South America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia, as well as the UK and Ireland. Rich in heritage and diversity, the Chippendale School brings people together through a shared love of wood, the best of which is found in rural Scotland.

Students are supported in all areas of school life, from the application process to finding accommodation, through to graduation and taking the first steps in their woodworking careers. They will learn under the guidance of a warm and welcoming team of expert craftspeople, who are dedicated to teaching the enduring skills required to design and create bespoke furniture and the craftsmanship of antique restoration.

Incubation WORKSHOP

Myreside Studios

Our incubator workshops – Myreside Studios – are where UK graduates of the 30-week Professional course can take learning to the next level, from a dedicated workbench after completing their course.

We will provide the necessary operational support to help you establish your business with confidence so you can continue to thrive within our creative community.

We provide spacious and well-equipped studios which offer everything you need to build your business, from tutor support to fully equipped machine shops. You’ll also benefit from the ongoing exchange of ideas and support from fellow graduates while transitioning from student to skilled craftsman.

As an added convenience, essentials like glue, sandpaper, and finishes are included in the rent. And to keep you fueled, there’s always a fresh pot of coffee brewing.

The journey

Our academic year unfolds like an ever-changing landscape… The 30 week course term starts in vibrant autumn as students are welcomed into the world of woodworking. Designs transition along with the freshness of spring, culminating in the full bloom of summer when we celebrate our creations and graduation… This transformative journey spans around 9 months, with creativity and craftsmanship nurtured throughout.

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ARRANGE A VISIT

If you are looking to embark on a career change or you have an interest in the art of woodworking and furniture design, get in touch and arrange a visit.

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Find Out More About Our Courses

30 WEEK COURSE

Our professional course is ideal for those looking to pursue a career in fine furniture design and making. With 30 students, starting each year in October, taught by an in-house team of tutors and a range of visiting experts.

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10 WEEK COURSE

This intermediate course is the right choice for those looking to advance their existing skillset. With a syllabus that consists of a series of set projects, each packed with learning outcomes, the course is intensive and intimate with only 8 students to 3 tutors.

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4 WEEK COURSE

This course is for those who wish to come and design and make a piece of furniture. With a maximum of 4 students, these courses are popular with hobbyists and fill up fast. The complexity of the design will be dictated by the individual student’s level of experience.

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1 WEEK COURSE

Ideal for beginners, the introductory course covers a wide range of woodworking fundamentals. This is great way to get a taste of the teaching environment at Chippendale and is a popular choice for those interested in the 30-week professional course. Other 1-week courses include wood bending techniques, upholstery and restoration.

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WEEKEND COURSES

These courses provide the most accessible route into woodworking. Over 2 days, students can learn how to turn a stool on one of our woodturning weekends. Or, carve a set of wooden spoons on our spoon carving course.

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