How to become a french polisher
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- training with a professional body
University
Doing a higher national diploma or degree in furniture design, decorative arts or furniture restoration can be useful if you want to start your own business.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- between 1 and 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a higher national diploma or degree
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College
You can learn polishing and finishing skills on some furniture making and restoration courses like:
- Level 2 Furniture Finishing Methods
- Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Furniture Restoration
- Level 3 Diploma in Furniture Design and Making
Entry requirements
You may need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
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Apprenticeship
Apprenticeships that may give you some of the skills needed for this role include:
- Level 2 Furniture manufacturer
- Level 2 Wood product manufacturing operative
- Level 3 Bespoke furniture maker
- Level 3 Carpentry and Joinery
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
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Other Routes
You could do a specialist training course in french polishing with a professional body like the The British Antique Furniture Restorers' Association.
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Professional and industry bodies
You could apply to join The Guild of Master Craftsmen for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.