N.E.J Stevenson, designers and makers of fine furniture, are delighted to announce that the business is looking to immediately recruit five new Apprentices for 2021 to support exciting expansion plans.

Managing Director and Owner Neil Stevenson explains why, “We are passionate and committed to the future of cabinet making and continuing the rich tradition of furniture making in the UK. What better way to keep skills alive and sustainable than by teaching a new generation first-hand through Apprenticeships. Taking up an Apprenticeship is a fantastic way for a person to learn specialist skills and earn a wage. Whilst also gaining industry knowledge and an unparalleled understanding of the process of bespoke furniture”.

He further added, “Many of current cabinetmakers started as apprentices as did I, which resulted in the beginning of N.E.J Stevenson and successfully trading for over 36 years. I am keen to offer the same first step opportunity to people in our local community”.

The five vacancies on offer are CNC Operator, CNC Programmer, Cabinetmaker, Wood Machinist, and Spray polisher. There are no required qualifications and applicants do not need to have any previous work experience as full training and mentoring will be given. But candidates must, however, have an aptitude for learning, want to be the best, hold a strong work ethic, and an eye for detail. Applicants will also need to demonstrate ideally a passion for the craft and a dedication to making long term careers in the industry.

The traditional skills industry has had a long history of training apprentices to learn their crafts and keep skills and industries alive. The first apprenticeships were purported to have been in the middle ages, where young men and women were taught critical trade skills. The young Apprentice at the elbow of the master craftsman is a common sight in historical films and Dickensian dramas. Although the 1960s was also a heyday for Apprenticeships with over 35% of young men between 15-17 going on Apprenticeship according to a report in 2003 by the Institute of Directors.  More recently Apprenticeships have come back into popularity, but the statistics show the take up of apprenticeships slowed last year compared to the year before. 

Neil Stevenson comments, “Bespoke manufacturing is an incredibly interesting industry to be part of providing continual challenges and a rewarding profession. We are keen to give back and support the country’s ongoing economic recovery by offering local people the opportunity to learn from the best and develop skills that will set them up in lifelong careers”.

For more information about the Apprenticeship programme email info@nejstevenson.co.uk