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The Footwear Manufacturer Apprenticeship (Level 2) is a structured training program that spans 12-15 months and is designed for aspiring footwear manufacturers. The apprenticeship emphasises both on-the-job training and off-the-job learning, requiring at least 20% of the program to be dedicated to off-the-job instruction. The focus is on developing practical skills in areas such as cutting, stitching, assembling, and finishing footwear, while also ensuring apprentices understand workplace safety, materials, and efficient workflow practices.

  • What will I study?

    Knowledge

    You will develop a thorough knowledge and understanding of: ? The ?end to end? main footwear construction process (Cutting, Skiving, Closing, Lasting, Attaching sole and heel, Finishing, quality checking and packing). ? Stages and variations of production for different footwear product types, e.g. slippers, boots, men?s, children?s and ladies? shoes. ? The characteristics, properties and behaviour of a variety of materials and components used in footwear construction and their suitable application.

    Skills You will have the ability to: ? Safely selecting, using, maintaining and storing equipment, materials and associated components (parts of the footwear product). ? Cutting materials, primarily leather, around patterns supplied by the employer. This process can be by hand or machine / laser (Clicking). ? Formation of the footwear (lasting) by stretching the upper over the last which is a plastic or wooden foot mould. ? Attaching the sole which might be cemented or stitched to the upper. Attaching the heel and welt where used. Behaviours What is required? ? Demonstrate a positive mind-set towards maintaining high standards of quality, precision and excellence always. ? Be self-motivated and punctual at all times. ? Respond positively and flexibly to change, new requirements, and changing priorities. ? Recognise and appreciate equality and diversity in the workplace.

  • Who is this course for?

    This course is designed for individuals interested in working in a factory environment, specialising in footwear production.

  • How is the course assessed?

    ? Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence ? Observation and Questioning

  • Your Study Programme
  • Knowledge

    You will develop a thorough knowledge and understanding of:

    • The awareness of health and safety regulations, relevance to the occupation and the machinist's responsibilities
    • Engineering representations, drawings, graphical information and specifications
    • Machining operations and techniques to produce complex components.
  • Skills

    You will have the ability to:

    • Comply with environmental, ethical and sustainability regulations and procedures
    • Record information - paper based or electronic
    • Apply machining operations and techniques to produce complex components with features.
  • Behaviours

    What is required?

    • Prioritise health and safety
    • team-focus to meet Work goals, for example, Work effectively with others, resolves issues in discussion with others
    • support an equality, diverse and inclusive culture.
  • General info

    All materials needed for the course are fully provided by Northampton College.

  • Progression and Career Opportunities

    The knowledge and skills gained through the program are applicable in other manufacturing environments, as well as in higher education?such as pursuing a university degree?or advancing into leadership roles within a company, such as supervisors or managers

  • Entry Requirements for new students

    Level 2 apprenticeship - Maths and English GCSE grade 3-9 (or equivalent) required

  • Admissions Process

    There is no set start date for this apprenticeship. However, there are two ways become an apprentice at Northampton College:

    1. If you have secured employment with the view of becoming an apprentice, or if you are already employed and would like to join an Apprenticeship programme, please get in touch with us on 01604 734323 or email business.centre@northamptoncollege.ac.uk to register your interest.
    2. If you don?t have a job yet, you can view all our apprenticeship vacancies through the National Apprenticeship Service (NAS). Each of these job openings are with trusted employers who are looking for an apprentice to join their team. You can click the button below to look through what?s currently on offer. Once you?ve found a vacancy you?re interested in, you will be taken to the National Apprenticeship Service website to begin your application for the role. In either case, we will support both you and your employer to ensure this is the right course for you.