Applicants are often surprised to learn that experience in woodworking is not an absolute pre-requisite for entry into the course. Nor is age a barrier, we welcome people from 18 years old and there is no upper age limit. Enthusiasm and a passion for furniture making, however, are essential.

 

Woodworking skills

The school takes up to 20 students each year. As each student receives one to one tuition and around 1500 hours of practical bench work, extensive woodworking experience is not essential. Our experience shows that even the least experienced student quickly acquires the skills needed to meet the demands of the course. The most important attributes are enthusiasm and a capacity for hard work.

 

English language

A TOEFL score of 400 or IELTS level 5 is adequate for the course. The school can recommend experienced language tutors for one to one tuition or group work for those students, who want to improve their English, but we find that living and working in an English-speaking environment is a great way to improve language skills. Our host families are also a big help for students wanting to develop their spoken English.

 

Financial security

Students must provide evidence that they have sufficient income to support themselves during the course, as well as pay course fees.

 

Students can opt to sell their furniture at the end of the summer term to recoup, at least in part, the costs of the training at the school. For more details about course costs and living expenses see fees and dates.