How to Become a Joiner in the UK
Everything you need to know about starting a career as a joiner — qualifications, training routes, what you will actually earn, and the tools you need to get started.
Average Salary
Self-employed joiners often earn more, especially in London and the South East. Experienced specialists can exceed the upper range significantly.
Qualifications You Need
Level 2 or 3 NVQ Diploma in Wood Occupations (Bench Joinery), City & Guilds equivalent, CSCS card for site work.
Training Route
2-3 year apprenticeship. Joiners work primarily in a workshop making doors, windows, staircases, and bespoke furniture, as opposed to carpenters who work on site. The distinction is blurred in practice but bench joinery requires more precision and knowledge of timber properties.
A Day in the Life
Work in a joinery workshop. Read drawings and set out timber. Machine components on table saws, planers, thicknessers, spindle moulders. Hand-finish joints - mortise and tenon, dovetails, finger joints. Assemble frames and units. Sand and apply finishes. Deliver and install on site.
Essential Tools
Get Kitted Out
Amazon has starter kits and individual tools for joiners:
Recommended Books
- 📖Bench Joinery NVQ Level 2 & 3(Amazon)
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