Ashfield-based iconic upholstery brand Parker Knoll is known for its extensive apprenticeship programme.

It gives young people the chance to develop traditional artisan skills in both upholstery and classic furniture design.

Many of Parker Knoll’s apprentices go on to work for the brand, reinforcing the value of apprenticeships.

To mark National Apprenticeship Week, from 6th–10th March, Dean Saunt, a development upholstery apprentice at Parker Knoll, talks about his life at the company.

How long have you been on your apprenticeship?

I started my apprenticeship almost 3 years ago in April 2014 and spent my first 3 weeks working in Quality Control with Daniel Grundy who is now an apprentice himself.

You’re a Level 3 Development Upholstery Apprentice, what tasks have you had to complete to reach this level?

To get onto the Level 3 course, I first had to complete my Level 2. I did my Level 2 whist I was on the factory floor making and repairing Parker Knoll furniture. To complete my Level 2, I had to show that I was competent at cutting, sewing, and was able to upholster a piece of furniture without any help – this was my final assessment at college.

What made you want to become a Parker Knoll apprentice?

I am from Long Eaton, which is known by many as being the heart of upholstery. I have a few friends that working as upholsterers at the time, and I had heard about the Parker Knoll apprenticeship scheme. I was already aware that Parker Knoll was a reputable brand, so when I saw the apprenticeship I applied right away. Initially I just wanted to get myself a trade, but upholstery is something different, and I could see the opportunities for progression.

What do you like most about working at Parker Knoll?

I would certainly say the people that I work with. I’ve been in development for nearly 18 months, and everyone has been so friendly and made me feel right at home. They are really helpful and are always willing to take a bit of time to give me some advice.

What is your favourite task?

I most enjoy making a pattern for a new design, cutting it all out and upholstering the frame to see if this works. It can be quite challenging at times but you get a great sense of accomplishment when you get it right.

What you do on a daily basis?

No day is the same, but I am normally creating and developing a few patterns for our brand new sofa ranges, cutting out frames ready to upholster, or generally assisting one of the other upholsterers – gaining knowledge from experienced upholsterers who have been in the industry for many years.

What are you currently working on?

I am currently helping out on the new evolution range. We have been upholstering each piece from the specification provided by the designed. We make each piece from scratch and flag up any issues there may be, and work to resolve them. It’s one of my favourite things about working in development – being part of this creative process.

What is it like to work with the development team?

I’m the youngest of the upholsterers in Development, which seemed like a daunting prospect at first, but everybody appreciates that I’m here to learn and be the best I can be, so they are always more than willing to pass their knowledge on to me.

What’s your biggest achievement to date whilst working within this team?

My biggest achievement is working on the Findon. I had to change a lot of patterns, and alter the match points on the fabric to get it ready for verification, which I had never done until that point. It is now on sale in John Lewis and I feel a great sense of pride knowing I had taken a large part in its development.

You won Apprentice of the Year in June 2015 – how has that impacted your development as an upholsterer?

I was presented with this reward by Webs Furniture Training who felt I deserved it out all the apprentices they are training at that time. Winning the award helped me a great deal. My confidence grew, having been highly acknowledged for my hard work. A couple of months later, I was asked if I would like to continue my apprenticeship to Level 3 in Development as a development upholsterer. I believe it was as a result of my commitment to doing well, and winning Apprentice of the Year.

Your goal after your apprenticeship?

My primary goal after I have completed my apprenticeship is to establish a permanent role within Development, and continue to improve on my skills to ensure quality in my work, and push myself to be the best.
When you’re not working hard on your apprenticeship, what would we find you doing?
Out of work I like to spend with friends – socialising, going out to different places. I also like spending a bit of time on my car. The mechanical/engineering really interests me. And of course, treating my girlfriend!

What do your friends say about you working in, what is considered to be, an ‘old’ industry?

Three or four of my good friends are upholsterers in Long Eaton. Admittedly, there are a lot of older people in the industry, but I believe manufacturers like Parker Knoll are doing well to recognise that there is a growing need to bring younger people into the industry. Providing the opportunities for great apprenticeships is the best way to do this!

What is your advice to anyone who may be considering an apprenticeship?

I would say if you’re the type of person who wants to gain a qualification, yet you don’t necessarily want to spend all day in a classroom, then you would definitely benefit from doing an apprenticeship. It does take a lot of hard work, and it is very hands-on, but it’s a great way to get your foot into the industry of your choice. You can also earn some money whilst gaining invaluable skills, so it’s a win-win!