Modern Upholster Apprentice

SHACKLETONS LIMITED

Dewsbury (WF12 9QR)

Closes on Saturday 27 June 2026

Posted on 29 April 2026

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Summary

A Modern Upholsterer is a skilled and methodical individual capable of creating ergonomic and comfortable furniture using both traditional and modern techniques, materials and fabrics to produce aesthetically pleasing and fit for purpose consumer products.

Wage

£16,224 for your first year, then could increase depending on your age

National Minimum Wage rate for apprentices

Check minimum wage rates (opens in new tab)

To be discussed upon interview 

Training course
Furniture manufacturer (level 2)
Hours
Monday to Thursday. Times and breaks to be discussed upon interview.

39 hours a week

Start date

Thursday 1 October 2026

Duration

2 years

Positions available

1

Work

Most of your apprenticeship is spent working. You’ll learn on the job by getting hands-on experience.

What you'll do at work

  • Safely using tools and machine in the manufacturing processes
  • Producing high quality finished products
  • Maintaining a safe and clean workplace

Where you'll work

Lucas House
Weaving Lane
Dewsbury
WF12 9QR

Training

Apprenticeships include time away from working for specialist training. You’ll study to gain professional knowledge and skills.

Training provider

KIRKLEES COLLEGE

Training course

Furniture manufacturer (level 2)

Understanding apprenticeship levels (opens in new tab)

Training schedule

Furniture manufacturer Level 2 Apprenticeship Standard qualification:

College study

Modern Upholster

  • Cut fabrics and components
  • Prepare and cut fabric and components used in upholstery

Frame Construction

Construct upholstery frames to specification. Understanding the methods used to construct frames

Sewn / Seamed Components

Produce sewn / seamed components by hand and through the use of machinery

Suspensions and Foundations

Select materials for suspensions including springs, pocket springs, sprung units and webbing. Apply these to frames using appropriate modern or traditional methods, tools and equipment

Upholstering

Measure and cut fabric, fit, apply and finish top covers including fluting, pleating and buttoning

Loose Covers

 Cut, sew and fit loose covers to specification

Repair

 Repair joints and frame ready for re-upholstery and revive and polish show-wood frame

Jigs and Templates

Use and maintain jigs and templates. Jigs are used to ensure repeatability and accuracy in the production of furniture. These can be hand held on workbenches

Produce Templates

Determine details of templates from specifications, mark out, measure dimensions and cut templates using appropriate tools and equipment

Resolve Faults in Leather

Deal with scuffs, scratches, stains, burn marks, water marks and discolouration in leather

Filling Materials

  • Select and fix filling materials. Understand different types and fixing methods
  • Fit mechanical or electrical components
  • Assemble, fit and quality assure components
  • Cushions and padded Items
  • Measure and cut fabric; sew components to produce scatter, box and bolster cushions

Frame Finishes

Finish and polish show-wood frames, apply stains, sealers basecoats and finishes

Trimmings and Finishings

Position and fix trimmings and finishings. This includes castors, valances, borders, skirts, dust covers and feet and legs

Requirements

Essential qualifications

GCSE in:

Maths/ English (grade 2 or above)

Share if you have other relevant qualifications and industry experience. The apprenticeship can be adjusted to reflect what you already know.

Skills

  • Communication skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Organisation skills
  • Problem solving skills
  • Logical
  • Team working
  • Creative
  • Initiative
  • Non judgemental
  • Patience

About this employer

We are more than the makers of furniture – we are a family. We have been handmaking furniture for senior living and care for over 60 years. We pride ourselves on our meticulous attention to detail at every stage. From our design ethos, to sourcing the finest quality timbers and materials to manufacture our world-class furniture, through to delivery and customer support.

https://www.shackletonsltd.co.uk/ (opens in new tab)

After this apprenticeship

  • There may be a possibility of securing employment on successful completion of the apprenticeship

Ask a question

The contact for this apprenticeship is:

KIRKLEES COLLEGE

Issy Rawson

irawson@kirkleescollege.ac.uk

07929873878

The reference code for this apprenticeship is VAC2000028488.

Apply now

Closes on Saturday 27 June 2026