Introducing the Mattress Manufacturing Operative Level 2 Apprenticeship

Excitingly, a new apprenticeship standard specifically designed for the bed sector was approved for delivery in late 2024, offering employers a dedicated pathway to develop the next generation of skilled mattress manufacturing operatives.

The Mattress Manufacturing Operative Level 2 apprenticeship was officially approved for delivery on 6th November 2024, following sector-wide consultation and development. It provides a much-needed tailored route for businesses focused on mattress and bed production, recognising the specialist skills required in this area of manufacturing.

Previously, many employers in the sector relied on the more general Furniture Manufacturer apprenticeship standard, which has served as a broad solution for many years. However, this new standard brings a sharper focus to the specific tasks, techniques and quality standards involved in mattress production, making training more relevant and effective.

While the Furniture Manufacturer standard is still in use during a transitional period, providers are now preparing to adopt and roll out the new Mattress Manufacturing Operative apprenticeship in 2025 and beyond.

What’s included in the standard?

The standard sets out the core knowledge, skills and behaviours required of a competent mattress manufacturing operative, including:

• Understanding of materials, components and production methods used in mattress making
• Use of hand tools and machinery
• Manual handling and workplace safety
• Quality checks and defect reporting
• Working efficiently as part of a team to meet production targets

This structured, on-the-job training gives apprentices real industry experience while building technical skills aligned to the specific needs of mattress manufacturers.

End-Point Assessment (EPA)

Achieve + Partners has been approved as an End-Point Assessment Organisation (EPAO) for this new standard. This means that once training is complete, employers and training providers can work with a specialist, experienced EPAO who understands the demands and context of mattress manufacturing.

Amanda Moore from Achieve + Partners commented:

“This is a great opportunity for the bed manufacturing sector to offer a more targeted apprenticeship that reflects the real work being done in factories across the UK. While the Furniture Manufacturer standard remains in use during this transition, we’re actively working with providers preparing to deliver the new standard.”

Next steps for employers

If you’re a mattress manufacturer interested in taking on an apprentice, now is the time to begin planning for delivery.

To find out more about the Mattress Manufacturing Operative Apprenticeship, or to get help with apprenticeship planning and recruitment, contact info@fiesta.org.uk.

Learn more about FIESTA on their website or visit the NBF’s online Careers page.