National Certificate in Furniture (Level 3) with strands in Finishing, Machine Operator, Furniture Making, Frame Making, Upholstery, Upholstery Cutting, and Upholstery Sewing

This qualification is designed to develop the knowledge and operational competence of people working in furniture manufacturing operations. On completion candidates will be able to carry out their duties safely, efficiently and to a high standard.

The core compulsory contains standards that relate to troubleshooting in a furniture operation, and competitive manufacturing. The core elective offers a range of standards relating to key operational skills that may be required in the furniture manufacturing industry. In addition candidates select a strand which allows them to develop industry specific skills that are most suited to their role and workplace.

This qualification follows on from National Certificate in Furniture (Level 2) with strands in Introductory Furniture Finishing Skills, Introductory Furniture Making Skills, and Introductory Upholstery Skills [Ref: 1502]. People who complete this qualification may wish to continue onto the National Certificate in Furniture (Level 4) with strands in Furniture Design and Markets, Craft Finisher, Machine Setter, Furniture Maker, Advanced Upholstery, and Computer Numerical Controlled Machinery (CNC) [Ref: 1504]. Candidates should refer to the diagram in Appendix 1 and examine the relationships between the strands for this and the Level 4 qualification.

Ara Institute of Canterbury is recognised as one of New Zealand’s leading tertiary institutes. Specialising in applied, vocational and professional training, it offers more than 150 courses from foundation to postgraduate level. 

Ara caters to a diverse range of learners; from school leavers and career changers to professionals wanting to upskill and individuals seeking to re-enter the workforce.

All Ara students benefit from the Ara Advantage: relevant courses, taught by inspirational mentors in real-life learning environments. Almost every Ara programme includes work-integrated learning. Work placements, apprenticeships, industry-based projects and internships ensure students are work-ready when they graduate.

Across its six campuses, Ara’s dedicated tutors and non-academic staff support students throughout their study journey. A comprehensive range of student services - such as financial assistance, learning support, health and wellbeing services, accommodation, childcare and student events – contributes to the success of every student.

It also has six additional small community hubs which deliver free digital upskilling and personal development courses.