You can take a construction course at college to learn some of the skills needed for this job. 

Courses include:

• shopfitting bench joinery
• construction operations
• carpentry and joinery
• T Level in Onsite Construction

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for these courses vary.

You can apply to do a Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship, such as:

• Fitted Interiors Installer
• Interior Systems Installer
• Carpentry and Joinery

These apprenticeships take around 2 years to complete and are a mix of on-the-job training and learning in the classroom.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship

You may be able to work as a shopfitter's labourer to build up your experience, and apply to join an apprenticeship with your employer's support.

You may be able to apply directly for a job as a shopfitter if you've got experience in one of the construction trades, for example tiling or carpentry and joinery.

Employers may look for some GCSEs in subjects like maths, English, and design and technology.

You'll need:

• knowledge of building and construction
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• knowledge of maths
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to work well with your hands
• to be flexible and open to change
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• design skills and knowledge
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You'll need to:

• have a good level of fitness

As a shopfitter you could:

• mark out and cut wood, metal, glass and plastic to make units and fittings in a workshop
• follow design instructions and measure up jobs on site
• provide estimates for materials, labour and timescales
• install units, counters, panels and frames, using hand and power tools
• fit new shop fronts and signage
• work on site with other tradespeople, like tilers and electricians
• prepare bids and quotes for new work

You could work at a client's business or in a workshop.

Your working environment may be physically demanding, cramped, dusty, at height and you'll travel often.

You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.