Build skills. Make a difference. Change futures.
Industries Workshop Instructor Furniture Restoration & Upholstery
Are you practical, hands-on and interested in textiles, upholstery or manufacturing?
We're looking for a Workshop Instructor Textile Workshop to lead the day-to-day operation of a busy bed restoration workshop within a Category C resettlement prison. You'll train, mentor and supervise prisoners, helping them develop practical manufacturing skills and work-ready behaviours while producing quality products for Reborn Beds.
Previous prison or teaching experience isn't essential full training and support will be provided. We're particularly interested in people with experience in upholstery, furniture manufacturing, carpentry, sewing, practical assembly or similar hands-on environments.
What you'll be doing
- Train and mentor prisoners in practical bed restoration and manufacturing skills, including frame stripping, wood re-boarding, foam cutting, padding and fabric reupholstering.
- Oversee daily workshop production, ensuring targets, schedules and quality standards are achieved.
- Support prisoners to develop confidence, teamwork, accountability and work-ready behaviours.
- Maintain high standards of health & safety, COSHH, tool control and risk assessment within a secure environment.
- Operate and maintain workshop tools, machinery and industrial sewing equipment, where required.
- Manage workshop materials and stock, including timber, fabrics, foam and upholstery supplies.
- Monitor attendance, behaviour and skills progression and provide relevant feedback to support release preparation.
- Work collaboratively with prison staff and wider education and employability teams.
Why this role matters
This isn't just a workshop role.
You'll be helping people develop real, practical skills that can lead to employment, while supporting rehabilitation and producing affordable, quality beds for families who need them.
You'll play a hands-on role in helping prisoners nearing release build confidence, discipline and practical skills they can take into employment and the community.
What we're looking for
We're looking for someone with a practical, hands-on background who can combine industry knowledge with the ability to motivate, support and develop others.
You'll ideally have:
- Experience in upholstery, furniture manufacturing, carpentry, sewing, production, assembly or a similar practical environment.
- Experience training, mentoring or supervising others is desirable but not essential.
- Knowledge of workshop tools, machinery and safe working practices.
- An understanding of health & safety and risk assessment.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- A calm, professional, patient and supportive approach.
- A genuine interest in helping people develop and progress.
Experience working within a prison, custodial or education environment would be advantageous, but isn't essential. Full training and support will be provided.
Join us and make a difference
If you're looking for a role where your practical skills can genuinely change lives, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply today and help build skills, confidence and brighter futures.
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