What makes our apprenticeship scheme so fulfilling? Hear from our apprentices – past and present
Our three-year apprenticeships provide a well-rounded foundation in joinery, combining hands-on experience and structured learning. Apprentices work with us at Bramling Workshops four days a week and spend one day a week at college developing their abilities. This blend of college and workshop-based learning equips apprentices with the skills needed to thrive in the joinery industry.
What makes our programme unique? Apprentices can go through all key departments, from design and manufacture to on-site installation. With in-house veneering and a world-class spray shop, they also gain experience in specialist techniques not typically available elsewhere.
Our team of expert craftspeople is committed to the success of every participant. This support, combined with real-world experience across multiple trades, makes our apprenticeships a stepping stone to a rewarding career in joinery.
Many team members started off as apprentices and have gone through the ranks. We’ve given them the opportunity to explore different areas, nurturing their passion and curiosity, and grow their careers.
For instance, Mircea Balasa, after completing his apprenticeship, became Workshop Foreman and now focuses on training future joiners. Others, like Ross McLean, moved into commercial roles, while William Brown transitioned from the workshop into programming and design.
Others like Daniel Davey and Jordan Buckett left after their apprenticeships and rejoined, recognising the value of our culture. Michael Lane began at Denne as a bench joinery apprentice and is now an experienced CNC operator, who trains others on the CNC machine.
“The Denne Joinery Apprenticeship scheme is brilliant,” Michael shared. “As a young person leaving school, it’s not always clear which career path to take. A joinery apprenticeship provides a strong foundation—not just in the trade, but in essential life skills that have long-term benefits. From building a routine and working as part of a team to developing a passion for craftsmanship, apprentices gain valuable experience that shapes both their professional and personal growth.”
Michael adds: “Denne Joinery is a fantastic place to start. With the company expanding, there are plenty of opportunities for quick growth and career progression. It opens so many doors, and it truly is the best way to learn.”
Another great example is Robbie Loomer. He began his career with a three-year bench joinery apprenticeship and explored different areas within the company, such as CNC machining and design. Today, he is our Operations Manager, championing our apprenticeship programme and leading the next generation of skilled craftspeople.
“Our apprentices have the chance to build their own identity and to explore whichever pathway they prefer. We like them to lead the conversation as to which projects they want to be involved in and where they want to specialise in the future.”
In 2024, we welcomed two new apprentices, Riley and Isaac to the team. They have been making exceptional progress, getting involved in large projects such as Sumitomo and Invesco. They chose Denne Joinery for their apprenticeships after finding out everything we had to offer.
Across the year, they have rotated through our specialist departments—bench, veneering, spray shop and more—taking their first steps toward becoming well-rounded joinery experts.
“We do some incredible work to very high standards. It’s a very great firm to be working for”, Isaac shared.
These stories highlight the diverse opportunities an apprenticeship can provide, from joinery and machining to design and commercial roles. We’re very proud of our past apprentices and the careers they’ve built, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for Isaac and Riley.
We have one intake a year and are actively recruiting between March and June for September’s registration. If you’re interested in becoming our apprentice or you know anyone who would like to join our Apprenticeship scheme, please get in touch with us.
