A KENDAL teenager who learnt the traditional trade of upholstery while on work experience has been putting his skills to good use.

After just one week working with Stuart Bottomley and Rachel Zivkovic in the Kendal Upholstery workshops in Bonningate, Sam Livingstone, 15, of Queen Katherine School, upholstered an entire chair.

Sam said: “I’m really pleased with my chair and I have been surprised how quickly I’ve been able to learn to use the traditional upholsterer’s tools and materials. I didn’t know much about upholstery before but it is really enjoyable and I was able to choose my own fabric for covering it.”

Mr Bottomley said: “Having Sam here for the week has given us a nice opportunity to support the school’s work experience scheme and give something back to the community,” says Stuart. “It has been really successful and Sam has worked hard while he’s been with us in the workshop.”

More than 230 Year 10 students from QKS have recently completed one week on work experience.

Mandy Mason, work experience coordinator at the school, said: “The Year 10s have a fantastic time on work experience and gain very valuable skills in the world of work.

"It gives them a more realistic view of working life and is often one of the highlights of their year.”