At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn the art of last making and master shoe craftsmanship under expert guidance.
- Company: Heritage brand with a rich history in bespoke footwear since 1849.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, develop unique skills, and work in a prestigious environment.
- Other info: Full-time role with opportunities for career growth in a dynamic workshop.
- Why this job: Join a legacy of craftsmanship and create high-quality, handmade shoes for discerning customers.
- Qualifications: GCSE Maths and English grade B; passion for craftsmanship and learning.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
We were established in 1849 and are now run by the fifth generation of the Lobb family. John Lobb learned the craft of boot making in Cornwall during the Victorian era, and before opening his first premises in London was granted a Royal Warrant as Bootmaker to Edward, Prince of Wales. The craftsmanship, quality and service that became synonymous with the name John Lobb around the world have been preserved through the decades by the Lobb family and remain alive and well at 9 St James’s Street, London.
The business has remained in the hands of the Lobb family for five generations and today, they and their incredible team continue to practice the craft, offering the highest quality, handmade footwear and accessories to discerning customers throughout the world.
Overview
Permanent full time position from 9:00am to 5:30pm Monday to Friday, including at least every third Saturday (in lieu of the following Monday). Located at 9 St James’s Street, London, SW1A 1EF.
Under our guidance and instruction, the successful applicant will be required to learn all the skills necessary to become a last maker. This will require a variety of skills and attributes and involve a number of different and equally important responsibilities all of which it will be essential for the successful applicant to have mastered as an apprentice in order to become a fully fledged last maker.
Salary to be confirmed on application.
Whilst demonstrating the skill and aptitude essential to the craft of last making is key to this role, in order to become a fully fledged last maker the successful applicant will have to learn how to take on a number of responsibilities as and when required, including but not limited to the following:
- Last Making
- Proper use and care of tools
- Making lasts for all different styles of shoes and boots
- Customer Care
- Providing the best customer service
- Taking clear customer instructions and ensuring these are carried out
- Taking measurements
- Carrying out fittings
- Liaising with the administrative staff to ensure seamless communication with customers
- Working on Completed Shoes and Boots
- Altering and adjusting shoes and boots
- Adjusting shoe trees
- Ancillary Workshop Duties
- Cutting (clicking) and preparing leather and other materials for the shoe makers
- Preparing shoes for fittings
- Pulling lasts from completed shoes and helping organising the last store
- Socking shoes and boots
- Preparing shoes and sending them for trees to be made
- Polishing and final finishing and preparation of shoes and boots
- Packing
- Leading workshop tours
- Liaising with other craftsmen and women as and when necessary
Qualifications and Experience
Minimum Math's and English GCSE grade B.
Technical Skills
Over the course of their apprenticeship the successful applicant will have to develop all the skills necessary to carry out the job of a last maker, which include but are not limited to the responsibilities listed above, so that once they become a fully fledged last maker they will have a comprehensive understanding of the craft of traditional hand made-to-measure shoe and boot making, including an extensive knowledge of the leathers and other materials used and how to work with them.
Personal Skills and Attributes
- Excellent organisational skills
- Welcoming, friendly and helpful
- Able to take and carry out instructions
Trainee Last Maker and Fitter employer: JOHN LOBB LIMITED
At John Lobb, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to learn the timeless craft of last making in the heart of London. Our supportive work culture fosters craftsmanship and personal growth, ensuring that every apprentice receives hands-on training from skilled artisans while being part of a family-run business with a rich heritage. With a commitment to quality and excellence, we provide our employees with a rewarding environment where they can develop their skills and contribute to a legacy of bespoke footwear.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Last Maker and Fitter
✨Get Hands-On at Local Events
Dive into local trade fairs or community workshops where you can meet seasoned professionals. It’s a great way to shake hands, ask questions, and even catch the eye of potential employers while showing off your eagerness to learn!
✨Connect with Industry Apprenticeship Schemes
Look for apprenticeship programmes in your area, as many skilled-trades companies, like those in construction or engineering, seek trainees directly through these channels. This is often a foot-in-the-door opportunity, and they value your willingness to jump in!
✨Use Social Media to Showcase Your Skills
Create a platform on social media where you can share short videos or posts about your projects or any related DIY tasks you’ve tackled. It’s a fun way to demonstrate your passion and can attract the attention of local businesses like JOHN LOBB LIMITED looking for fresh talent.
✨Don’t Overlook Informal Networking
Chatting with friends, family, or acquaintances can sometimes lead to hidden opportunities. Let them know you’re on the hunt for a trainee role in skilled trades, and you might stumble upon a lead you’d never have found elsewhere!
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Last Maker and Fitter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills!:When applying for a trainee position in skilled trades, make sure to highlight any relevant hands-on experience you've got, even if it’s just from school or hobbies. We want to see how you've used tools and techniques related to the trade, so don’t be shy about mentioning those specific skills!
Let Your Passion Shine Through:In your cover letter, share your genuine interest in the skilled trade you're applying for. Talk about why you chose this path and what excites you about working with JOHN LOBB LIMITED. Passion can go a long way, especially as a trainee where you're eager to learn and grow!
Certificates Matter!:If you have any certifications relevant to the skilled trades, like health and safety or specific training courses, definitely include them with your application. They can set you apart and show that you’re committed to your professional development right from the start.
Tidy Up That CV:Keep your CV clear and easy to read. Focus on your education, any hands-on experience, and relevant projects or apprenticeships. Remember to format it nicely and keep it to one page if possible, as we’ll appreciate a concise overview that gets straight to the point!
How to prepare for a job interview at JOHN LOBB LIMITED
✨Get Your Tools Ready
Think about the specific tools or techniques you'll be using in the skilled trades. If you're applying for a trainee role, you might not need to be a master, but showing that you’ve got basic knowledge of the tools and materials relevant to the job will set you apart. Maybe even bring along some photos or examples of your work if you've had any hands-on experience.
✨Know Your Safety Standards
Safety is a big deal in skilled trades, so be prepared to discuss regulations or safety measures specific to your field. They might throw some situational questions at you regarding safety practices, so think about any protocols you’ve learned. Showing you're safety-conscious will make a great impression!
✨Be Ready for Practical Scenarios
During your interview, expect some practical tests or scenario-based questions. Interviewers love to know how you’d solve real-world problems on the job site. Practise explaining your thought process clearly; it demonstrates how you think on your feet—and this is crucial for a trainee role!
✨Show Your Enthusiasm to Learn
As a trainee, showcasing your eagerness to learn is key. Highlight any experience or courses you’ve done related to the trades, even if informal. Talk about why you’re passionate about this line of work—your motivation will come across clearly and convince them you’re the right fit for the team at JOHN LOBB LIMITED.
