Apprenticeships in the furniture industry: what’s changed and what matters now

By Hannah Hockley, founder, The Apprenticeship Partner

Apprenticeships have long played an important role in the furniture industry, supporting skills development while helping businesses pass on knowledge, experience and craft.

In recent years, apprenticeships have continued to evolve, with clearer standards, stronger employer involvement and a growing focus on quality. For furniture businesses considering an apprentice today, this creates a solid and well-supported framework to build from.

This article looks at how apprenticeships currently work, what has developed over time, and how employers can make the most of the opportunities available.

Apprenticeships are clearer and more consistent than ever

Apprenticeship standards are now well established, with clearly defined roles and outcomes. Each standard sets out the knowledge, skills and behaviours an apprentice will develop, giving employers confidence about what training will cover and how progress is measured.

This clarity makes it easier for businesses to plan apprenticeships that align with real roles within their organisation. It also helps apprentices understand what is expected of them and how their learning supports their future career.

Taking time at the outset to define the role and how it fits into the business helps ensure the apprenticeship delivers lasting value.

Apprenticeships offer more than financial support

Funding is often one of the first things employers look at when considering an apprentice, and for many businesses, especially smaller employers, this support makes apprenticeships more accessible.

However, the true value of an apprenticeship goes beyond funding. Apprenticeships provide a structured way to grow talent, build loyalty and develop skills that are tailored to the business and the wider industry.

Employers who approach apprenticeships as a long-term investment often see benefits in workforce stability, progression opportunities and future leadership within their teams.

Attracting new talent into the industry

Apprenticeships continue to be an important route into the furniture industry, particularly for young people and career changers who are keen to learn while working.

Clear recruitment processes, practical insight into the role and opportunities to experience the working environment all help candidates make informed choices. This sets apprentices up for success from the start and supports positive outcomes for both the individual and the employer.

By showcasing the range of roles available across furniture making, manufacturing, interiors and related areas, apprenticeships help highlight the diversity of careers within the sector.

Supporting businesses of all sizes

Many furniture businesses are small or medium-sized employers, often balancing production, design, sales and management within tight teams. Apprenticeships can work well in these environments when they are planned around the realities of the business.

Access to clear, sector-specific guidance helps employers understand their options, choose suitable apprenticeship standards and engage with the right training providers. This support makes the process simpler and allows businesses to focus on developing their people.

How FIESTA supports the furniture industry

FIESTA (Furniture Industry Education, Skills and Training Alliance) was established to support furniture and interiors businesses with skills development, training and apprenticeships in a way that reflects how the sector operates in practice.

FIESTA does not deliver training directly. Instead, it acts as a connector, helping employers understand apprenticeship options, identify appropriate standards and work with training providers that meet their needs.

By offering independent, practical guidance, FIESTA supports employers to make informed decisions and build apprenticeship programmes that are sustainable, effective and aligned with real roles within their businesses.

Looking ahead

Apprenticeships remain a strong and valuable route for developing skills, supporting succession planning and attracting new talent into the furniture industry.

As the sector continues to evolve, apprenticeships offer a flexible and recognised way for businesses to invest in their future workforce, supported by clear standards, experienced providers and sector-led initiatives such as FIESTA.

Employers interested in discussing apprenticeships or skills development in the furniture industry can contact FIESTA for an initial conversation at info@fiesta.org.uk