At the Textile Centre of Excellence, we offer a bespoke Level 2 Textile Manufacturing Operative Apprenticeship designed to equip apprentices with the practical skills, technical knowledge and workplace behaviours required to succeed in today’s textile manufacturing industry.
Our apprenticeship combines hands-on workplace experience with tailored training, enabling learners to develop competence across a range of textile production processes. Apprentices gain the skills needed to support efficient manufacturing operations, maintain quality standards, operate machinery safely, and contribute to the production of textiles used across a variety of sectors, including apparel, interiors, technical textiles and advanced manufacturing.
What Will Your Apprentice Learn?
The Level 2 Textile Manufacturing Operative Apprenticeship is designed to provide learners with the core skills and knowledge required to work effectively within a modern textile manufacturing environment. Apprentices gain practical, hands-on experience in:
Textile Production Processes: Understanding the stages of textile manufacturing, from raw materials through to finished products
Machinery Operation: Safely operating and monitoring textile manufacturing equipment to support efficient production
Material Knowledge: Understanding different fibres, yarns and fabrics, including their properties and applications across various sectors
Production Planning & Workflow: Supporting production schedules, maintaining productivity, and contributing to efficient manufacturing processes
Quality Control: Inspecting materials and finished products to ensure they meet customer specifications and industry standards
Health, Safety & Continuous Improvement: Following workplace safety procedures, maintaining high standards of housekeeping, and identifying opportunities to improve manufacturing performance and efficiency.
Why Choose TCoE?
Bespoke Training:
Programmes tailored to meet the specific needs of employers and apprentices, ensuring relevant, industry-focused development.
Experienced Tutors:
Delivered by highly skilled professionals with extensive experience in textile manufacturing and industry practice.
Flexible Learning:
A blended approach combining on-the-job training with structured classroom-based learning to support real workplace application.
Career Development:
Equips apprentices with the practical skills and confidence to progress within textile manufacturing roles or advance into further training and qualifications.
Further Details
- Typically, GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths at grade 4/C or above
- Relevant experience in textiles, sewing, or manufacturing environments may also be considered
- A strong interest in practical, hands-on work with good attention to detail
- Commitment to completing a 16–18 month Level 2 apprenticeship programme
- Employer support to enable effective on-the-job training and development
The apprenticeship concludes with an End-Point Assessment (EPA), including:
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Knowledge Test – assessing understanding of upholstery techniques, materials, and industry practices
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Observation with Questioning – evaluating practical skills and application in real workplace projects
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Structured Interview – reviewing a portfolio of evidence demonstrating competence, craftsmanship, and achievements
Successful completion leads to a Level 2 Textile Manufacturing Operative qualification, recognised across the textile industry.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re looking to develop a highly skilled workforce in upholstery, our Advanced Upholsterer Apprenticeship is the ideal solution. Partner with the Textile Centre of Excellence to access tailored training, funding support, and practical programmes designed to upskill your team and strengthen your business.
Contact us to find out how we can help you grow talent and build expertise within your workforce.

