You could learn some of the skills needed to get a job as a trainee with a design company. Courses include:

• interior design
• art and design
• computer-aided design

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for these courses vary.

You could apply to do a Fitted Furniture Design Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.

This can take up to 2 years to complete and combines on-the-job training with classroom study.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

You might be able to start in a kitchen and bathroom sales or installation role, then train on the job to become a kitchen or bathroom designer.

You'll need:

• design skills and knowledge
• customer service skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to come up with new ways of doing things
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to use your initiative
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• knowledge of building and construction
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

You may need a driving licence to travel to clients' premises.

As a kitchen or bathroom designer, you'll:

• discuss design ideas, layouts and styles with customers
• help customers choose appliances, cabinets and worktops
• create 2D and 3D plans, using design software
• calculate costs, and provide estimates and timescales for customers
• oversee installation work, track progress and check quality
• meet sales targets
• keep up to date with design trends and products

You could work at a client's home, at a store or visit sites.