Shoe repairer

You could start by doing an intermediate apprenticeship in fashion and textiles footwear.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• guide to apprenticeships

You could apply directly for a job as a trainee with a shoe repair company.

Some employers may give you a short assessment to test your English, basic maths and practical skills.

You'll need:

• the ability to work well with your hands
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• customer service skills
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to come up with new ways of doing things
• ambition and a desire to succeed
• persistence and determination
• the ability to use your initiative
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Your day-to-day duties could include:

• replacing worn out soles and heels
• carrying out more complicated repairs, like renew stitching and welts
• building up soles and heels
• cleaning, polishing, dying or staining shoes
• replacing buckles, laces, zips or straps
• maintaining equipment, sharpening cutting tools and servicing machinery

You could work at a store.

Your working environment may be noisy, dirty and dusty.

You may need to wear protective clothing.