At Rosewood Bespoke Joinery, investing in the next generation of skilled craftspeople is an important part of who we are. As part of NI Apprenticeship Week, we caught up with Tommy Lyttle, one of our apprentice joiners, to hear more about his journey, what he’s learning, and why the apprenticeship route was the perfect fit for him. Tommy brings enthusiasm, curiosity and a strong work ethic to the workshop, and his story reflects the value of hands‑on learning within a supportive, experienced team.
Q: How did you find out about the apprenticeship opportunity at Rosewood Bespoke Joinery?
A: My dad previously worked at Rosewood Bespoke Joinery and always said it was a great place to work. He is a joiner by trade, so I am following in his footsteps. When I heard they were looking for apprentices, it felt like the right move.
Q: What qualification are you working toward?
A: I am working toward an NVQ Level 3 in Site and Bench Joinery.
Q: How long have you been with Rosewood Bespoke Joinery?
A: I have been here for around seven months, and I am really enjoying it. I have already learned a lot. The full apprenticeship takes four years, and after that I will be a fully qualified joiner.
Q: Tell us a bit about the application process.
A: I knew Rosewood Bespoke Joinery were looking for apprentices, so I applied through the website. Before applying, I made sure I had secured a place at college. I was lucky to get into North Regional College in Magherafelt. After submitting my application, I went through a formal interview and was delighted to be offered the role.
Q: What does a typical week look like for you?
A: I am in tech on Mondays and Tuesdays, mainly learning the educational and theory side of joinery, including health and safety, paperwork, COSHH and legal requirements. The rest of the week I work in the Rosewood Bespoke Joinery workshop, where I get hands on experience and put everything into practice.
Q: What attracted you to the apprenticeship route?
A: I always knew I wanted a practical career, and sitting in an office full time was not for me. The idea of earning while learning, gaining a lifelong trade and being part of a larger organisation really appealed to me. It also means a lot to follow in my dad’s footsteps.
Q: What are the best and worst parts of the job?
A: The worst part is definitely the cold mornings. Unfortunately, that is just part of working in Northern Ireland. The best part is the people. Everyone is really supportive, and the boys make it an enjoyable place to work. I like feeling part of the team and learning from colleagues who have so much experience.
Q: What have you enjoyed most about the learning experience so far?
A: I enjoy working with the machinery and seeing a job run from start to finish. It is satisfying watching something you have helped create take shape.
Q: What is something people might not realise when starting an apprenticeship in joinery?
A: You need to take your time and respect the machinery. Joinery has hazards, and you build up to using different tools gradually. As an apprentice, you are not approved to use certain machines until you show competency. Staying focused is important because one second of distraction can cause harm. I am excited to keep progressing and eventually use more advanced machines like the edge bander and the table saw.
Q: How do you manage your time between work and college?
A: Tech is less structured than work, so I have had to bring the discipline from Rosewood Bespoke Joinery into the classroom. You need to stay organised so you do not fall behind. In the workshop you get lots of guidance, but in tech you have to be more self sufficient.
Q: What are your long term career goals?
A: I would love to stay with Rosewood Bespoke Joinery. In the future, I would also like to travel and work abroad. Joinery is a trade you can take anywhere in the world.
Q: How does your manager support your development?
A: Chris, my manager, helps me understand drawings and how to create a cutting list. Once I plan out the steps, he reviews and approves it. Then I begin making the unit and get feedback throughout the process. It is a great way to learn.
