Stanley Mackintosh, a Cabinet Making apprentice from Norwich, is currently training at Rycotewood Furniture College while working at Bill Cleyndert and Company. He’s on a Level 3 apprenticeship programme that follows a block-release model—spending two months gaining hands-on experience at work, followed by a week of focused study at college. This combination of practical training and specialist education is helping him build a strong foundation in his craft.
Originally from Rushmere, Suffolk, Stanley has always been drawn to creative, hands-on work. His passion for woodworking started at the age of 15, when his interest in music inspired him to build his own guitar. That spark quickly grew into a desire to truly understand the art of woodwork. After studying design at sixth form and falling deeper in love with the craft, Stanley decided to pursue cabinet making full time—and secured an apprenticeship to turn that passion into a career.
Stanley’s journey with WorldSkills UK began when his employer, Bill Cleyndert and Company, introduced him to the opportunity through Christian Notley, the WorldSkills UK Cabinet Making Training Manager. After an initial visit and talk, Stanley entered the regional qualifiers and progressed to the national stage. In 2024, he won gold at the WorldSkills UK National Final.
Now, he’s been selected to represent Team UK at EuroSkills Herning 2025 in Denmark. “It’s exciting—it means a lot to be chosen so early in my career,” he says. “I haven’t been in the trade that long, so hitting such a big milestone already is really motivating. It makes me want to keep working hard and see how far I can take this.”
His family, friends, employer, and college have all been incredibly supportive. “My employer has been great—allowing me to take time off to train and attend bootcamps. They really see the value in what this experience brings to me and to the business. My family are also thrilled—and a little smug! They always said I could do this, even when I wasn’t sure.”
As Stanley prepares for EuroSkills, he’s focusing more on detailed planning and structure in his day-to-day work. “I’m bringing a more methodical approach into my workflow. I’m lucky to be able to use the workshop after hours to practise. My college is also giving me amazing support, with advice and technical guidance.”
The competition training is already having a big impact on his career. “It’s teaching me the importance of planning and preparation—being intentional before even picking up a tool. That mindset shift has made my work more precise and efficient.”
Looking to the future, Stanley hopes to develop not just as a cabinet maker but also as a designer—creating more of his own pieces and working with a wider range of materials. He’s also keen to gain experience across different departments at work to broaden his skills even further.
Looking ahead to EuroSkills Herning 2025, Stanley is especially excited about meeting other competitors from across Europe. “I want to learn how they approach their craft and how their training differs from mine. I enjoy the pressure of competition, and I’m looking forward to testing myself against the best people from Europe.”
For other young people considering WorldSkills UK competitions, Stanley’s message is clear: “Definitely go for it. I’ve been encouraging the younger apprentices at my company to get involved. No matter how far you go in the process, you learn so much—and that experience stays with you.”
Follow Stanley’s journey @WorldSkills UK
Pearson is the official partner of Team UK for EuroSkills Herning 2025 and WorldSkills Shanghai 2026.
Find out how the WorldSkills UK Learning Lab can support apprentices and learners.
