Shopfitter apprenticeships - where to start
You can get into this job through
a college coursean apprenticeshipapplying directly
College
You can take a construction course at college to learn some of the skills needed for this job. Relevant courses include:
- Level 2 Diploma in Shopfitting Bench Joinery
- Level 2 Diploma in Construction Operations
- Level 2 Extended Diploma In Site Carpentry
- T Level for Carpentry and Joinery
You may need 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a Level 2 course. You'll need 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level.
Apprenticeship
You can start as a junior shopfitter through a Level 2 apprenticeship in interior systems, or a Level 3 apprenticeship for carpenters and joiners.
You'll usually need some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for a Level 2 apprenticeship. You'll need 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for a Level 3 apprenticeship.
Direct Application
You may be able to apply directly for a job as a shopfitter if you've got experience in one of the construction trades, for example tiling or carpentry and joinery.
Employers may also look for some GCSEs in subjects like maths, English, and design and technology. You may need a Shopfitting and Interior Contracting Competency Scheme (SICCS) card to work on some jobs.
Professional and industry bodies
You could become a member of the National Association of Shopfitters.
Shopfitter apprenticeships - what it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- knowledge of maths
- knowledge of building and construction
- the ability to work well with others
- the ability to work well with your hands
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
- design skills and knowledge
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
Restrictions and Requirements
You'll need to have a good level of fitness
Shopfitter apprenticeships - what you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
In your day-to-day duties you could:
- mark out and cut wood, metal, glass and plastic
- to make units and fittings in a workshop
- estimate material quantities and costs
- prepare tenders and quotes for jobs
- prepare or follow design plans
- measure and set out jobs on site
- install units, frames and shopfronts with hand and power tools
- work with other tradespeople on site like tilers and electricians
Working environment
You could work at a client's business or in a workshop.
Your working environment may be physically demanding, cramped, you'll travel often, outdoors some of the time, dusty and at height.
You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.
Career path and progression - Shopfitter apprenticeships
With experience, you could move into a supervisory role, like chargehand or foreperson.
You could become a contract manager or shopfitting designer with further training. You could also set up your own shopfitting business.