The British Woodworking Federation Group

Hear what our apprentices have to say

Apprenticeships has been the main way of getting into the woodworking industry. They offer a varied learning experience (hands-on experience and study) and allow you to earn while you learn industry skills.

To help showcase the many opportunities that apprenticeships can bring, we have a number of case studies where BWF member apprentices, in their own words, share their experiences.

I've always been interested in woodworking even from a young age. I'm a very practical person and also quite creative, and joinery allows me to use these qualities daily which is great.

Cai, Apprentice at Williams Homes
Through an apprenticeship you gain a range of experience in the different areas of the factory, using different skills and tools, which means that your able to choose where you work after. This also means that you’re a bigger asset to a company as you have valuable knowledge and skills in all key areas."
Chris, apprentice at George Barnsdale

I love the joinery parts of the apprenticeship and I really think that I could progress to be a team leader after my apprenticeship. I also want to give back to new apprentices and share the things I’ve learned.

Reilley, apprentice at ERW Joinery
It’s a good opportunity to get involved in the work, do the work and see if you like it. You get to learn more about the industry and your options for future jobs, which can mean a career for life in a well-established family run business."
Alfie, Apprentice at George Barnsdale
Read the apprentices stories in their own words
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Latest

BWF Champions role of apprenticeships in providing careers for life
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Cai, apprentice at Williams Homes, shares his thoughts on his journey to date
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Alfie, apprentice at George Barnsdale, explains why an apprenticeship is a positive route into the woodworking and joinery manufacture industry
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Latest

BWF Member Input Joinery tell us why it’s important for businesses to offer apprenticeships
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Reilley, apprentice at ERW Joinery, shares what surprised him most about the sector
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Jan, apprentice at George Barnsdale, shares his advice for those considering an apprenticeship in woodworking and joinery
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Harry, apprentice at George Barnsdale, shares why he believes an apprenticeship is a positive first step into the sector
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Hear why apprenticeships are a great way to start your career

Bailey from ERW Joinery

Former BWF Apprentice of the Year Award Winner Bailey says his proudest achievement has been to become a team leader at ERW and have an apprentice working under him to train and share all the knowledge he has learnt.

Emmanuel from Masonite

Emmanuel from Masonite shares his apprenticeship experience and what he enjoys the most about working in the woodworking and joinery industry.

Lewis from A R Manley

Lewis is looking forward to becoming a fully qualified joiner after completing his apprenticeship.

Abbey from Masonite

Abby shares her experience and what she enjoys most about her apprenticeship with Masonite

Patrick from ERW Joinery

Having seen his step father work in joinery Patrick naturally gained an interest in working in the sector and also wanted to follow suit.

Matthew from A R Manley

Having an interest in woodworking from a young age by fixing things around the house, Matthew found he had a knack and quite enjoyed woodworking.

Robert at A R Manley

On top of the diverse range of jobs you have the opportunity to work on, Robert was also surprised by the diverse range of ways there are to get the job completed.
Member of Construction Products Association
National Specialist Contractors Council
Passive Fire Protection Federation
CITB
The Alliance for Sustainable Building Products