On Saturday, we were delighted to welcome a group of Year 11 learners to a free Craft & Design Upholstery taster session delivered in partnership with the East London Furniture Institute (ELFI).

The session gave learners the opportunity to spend the day working in a professional workshop environment, learning practical upholstery techniques with support from specialist tutors. For many, it was a first introduction to the skills, tools and creative processes involved in furniture making and soft furnishings.

A highlight of the day was the chance for each learner to design and create their own fabric notice board, which they were able to take home at the end of the session. The quality of work produced reflected the focus, creativity and effort learners brought throughout the day.

These taster sessions are an important way of helping young people explore post-GCSE options with confidence. By experiencing hands-on learning in an authentic setting, learners gain a clearer understanding of what studying Craft & Design could look like, and the pathways it can open into creative and heritage-focused industries.

It was also a pleasure to see families sharing in what learners achieved, celebrating both the process and the finished pieces.

We look forward to welcoming more prospective learners to future opportunities as we continue to build creative routes into upholstery and furniture making through our growing partnership with ELFI.

If you are a Year 11 learner considering your next steps after GCSEs and enjoy practical, creative learning, we would love to hear from you.

To find out more about our Craft & Design and upholstery pathways, visit:
 www.ldeutc.co.uk