Every ticket helps shape the future of woodworking.
100% of profits fund training and apprenticeships, giving aspiring woodworkers the skills and opportunities they need to build successful careers.
About ELFI
The East London Furniture Institute (ELFI) is a centre of excellence for furniture making and upholstery education. Based at London Design & Engineering UTC, ELFI combines technical training with strong industry connections, preparing learners for apprenticeships, further study, and successful careers in the woodworking sector.
The woodworking industry is full of creativity and craft, but breaking in can be tough without the right support. Your ticket ensures passionate individuals gain hands-on learning, mentorship, and career pathways.
Take Tom — he began as an apprentice funded by a programme like this and is now a T-level woodworking tutor, inspiring the next generation of makers. Your ticket makes stories like his possible.
Industry Collaboration & Opportunities
ELFI works with a range of respected organisations to give learners exceptional opportunities:
- Worshipful Company of Upholders – awards, bursaries, and industry insight
- Worshipful Company of Furniture Makers – promoting excellence, education, and welfare
- John Lewis (Furniture & Upholstery Dept) – supporting curriculum and commercial awareness
- Hille Furniture Ltd – contributing design expertise
- Martins Upholstery Supplies – providing industry-standard materials and tools
Through these partnerships, learners gain mentorship, access to awards, and engagement with leading industry figures, preparing them to become future leaders in furniture and upholstery.
World-Class Learning Environment
ELFI’s purpose-built facilities combine advanced woodworking and upholstery workshops, CNC and digital fabrication technology, CAD suites, and specialist upholstery benches. Co-designed with employers, the environment mirrors professional studios, giving learners the skills and workplace behaviours needed to succeed in the creative and manufacturing sectors.
Celebrating Craft & Innovation
The London International Woodworking Festival (London IWF) is a highlight of ELFI’s community engagement. It brings together professionals, educators, and aspiring makers through master-classes, lectures, workshops, and exhibitions. Participants gain hands-on learning, receive expert feedback, and build the confidence and professional insight needed to thrive in the industry.
Join ELFI
If you are inspired by what you’ve read and would like to explore joining one of ELFI’s pathways, visit our admissions page to learn more about the application process. For any questions, you can email admissions@elfi.uk.