Fine furniture making student Philippa Moss always wanted to be a cabinet maker and now her dreams are becoming a reality.
Philippa, pictured, is thought to be one of the best trainee cabinet makers in the region after coming second in the cabinet making section of the South West heat of SkillBuild 2012, the UK's biggest construction skills competition. She is now laying the foundations for a bright future.
"When I was young I always want to be a carpenter and used to spend hours watching my grandad in his workshop. But as I got older and did my A-levels I just sort of forgot about it. It was only when I returned home and started to use the tools again that I rediscovered my love for the craft."
Despite her recent success, being a cabinet maker was not always on the cards for Philippa, and it was only at the age of 24 she finally decided to pursue her dreams.
After completing A-levels, Philippa continued in education progressing on to a degree in Geology at Portsmouth University and then on to a Masters degree in Geology and Archaeology at the University of Reading. She was all set move to Canada to undertake a PHD but the funding fell through and so, at the age of 24, she found herself returning to her home county of Gloucestershire.
Once at home, Philippa rediscovered her love for cabinet making. She began designing and creating a chicken house for her mum and her interest grew and grew. Philippa was introduced to a furniture maker in Nailsworth, who recommended the furniture making course at Gloucestershire College, and was inspired to develop a career in the industry. Impressed by the level of skill and detail taught at the college, Philippa enrolled on the two year course and began to learn skills including solid wood construction and marquetry.
Philippa gained part-time employment earlier this year as a cabinet maker at Roundhouse, a kitchen design company in Malvern. In her spare time she also designs and creates decking, outdoor furniture and fencing.
Mike Hyett, fine furniture lecturer at Gloucestershire College, said: "Throughout the duration of the course students develop their skills so at the end of the two years they can create bespoke fine furniture pieces. Philippa has been a dedicated student and made a fantastic start to her career."
The college is hosting its annual Fine Furniture Exhibition this month on Wednesday, June 27, 12noon to 9pm; Thursday, June 28 12noon to 9pm and Friday, June 29 10am to 5pm at Theatre, Gloucester Campus, Llanthony Road, Gloucester. Visitors will be able to view the furniture designed and created by Philippa and her fellow classmates. It is open to everyone.
Source: www.thisisgloucestershire.co.uk
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