We’re excited to launch the new-look FIESTA Apprenticeship Service, designed to make it easier than ever for Commercial Interiors UK (CIUK) members to access clear, expert support with apprenticeships.
Apprenticeships play a vital role in bringing new talent into the industry and supporting businesses to grow. But for many employers, the process can feel unclear or time-consuming. That’s where FIESTA comes in.
What is FIESTA?
FIESTA stands for the Furniture and Interiors Education, Skills and Training Alliance. We exist to champion skills and apprenticeships across the furniture and interiors sector – making it simpler for businesses to take on apprentices and invest in future talent.
The newly relaunched FIESTA Apprenticeship Service offers a practical, step-by-step approach to help employers recruit, train, and retain apprentices – whatever stage they’re at.
How Does CIUK Fit In?
CIUK has partnered with FIESTA to bring this service directly to the commercial interiors sector. As a CIUK member, you’ll benefit from a range of tailored support options – from free guidance to fully managed recruitment.
Our aim is to take the stress and uncertainty out of apprenticeships, and help more businesses make the most of the funding, training, and talent opportunities available.
Support to Suit Every Business
Three service levels are available to meet different needs and budgets:
Essential Guidance – Free (normally £500)
- Designed for businesses new to apprenticeships or short on time. This package gives you everything you need to get started with confidence:
- Discovery Session – We’ll get to know your business and help define your apprenticeship needs
- Programme Matching – We’ll identify the most relevant apprenticeship standards for your roles
- Training Provider Connection – We’ll shortlist suitable providers for you to contact
- Funding & Grants Guidance – We’ll explain what support is available and how to access it
- Job Description Template – A ready-to-edit template to help you attract the right candidates
- Apprentice Guide – A clear, user-friendly guide to help onboard and support your apprentice
- Induction Guide – A structured plan to help your apprentice settle in
- Digital Account Setup Guide – A step-by-step guide to register on the Government’s apprenticeship system
Tailored Assistance – £250
Adds more hands-on support for those managing the process themselves. This includes provider liaison, tailored job descriptions, branded onboarding resources and advertising tips.
Full Recruitment Service – 10% of apprentice’s annual salary
Normally 15%, but currently discounted for CIUK members. A fully managed solution covering everything from job creation and advertising to interviews, onboarding and training provider connection.
A Service for the Whole Sector
FIESTA supports apprenticeships across a wide range of roles – from installers, makers and designers to sales, admin, and project management. Whether you're hiring your first apprentice or expanding your team, our approach is designed to be practical and flexible.
With government funding covering up to 100% of training and assessment costs, apprenticeships are not only effective – they’re cost-efficient too.
New Look, Same Mission
This relaunch includes a refreshed brand identity and a more accessible website to reflect the modern, high-end careers available in the commercial interiors sector.
The new site includes sector-specific guidance, employer resources, and a dedicated hub for CIUK members. More features, events and updates will follow over the coming months – all designed to help you make apprenticeships work for your business.
Want to know more?
Visit fiesta.org.uk or email info@fiesta.org.uk