undertaker!!!!

[curlyfilm]

i always wondered about being an undertaker, how would you go about being one, is there any courses you have to do, or qualifications

[Ethel]

There are many different jobs within the funeral business.

Most are advertised and personal qualities are more important than qualfications, unless you want to be an embalmer.

Funeral arrangers must be organised and have excellent people and administrative skills. Sadly with some companies the ability to sell 'top range' funerals is also a requirement.

They very often work alone for long periods of the day. They will be responsible for ensuring the coffin is in the chapel at the right time for viewing, but usually have no physical contact with the bodies.

[Ethel]

Part two:

Drivers are always needed - they collect the bodies, sometimes in the middle of the night, and drive for the funeral service. They have to carry the coffin too.

Others wash and dress the bodies - 'lay them out'. This can include putting 'make up' on and styling hair. Some aspects are very intimate.

If you are a funeral arranger you also need some understanding of the major religions.

It can be hugely distressing - some bodies will have been badly burnt or maimed, some will be little tiny children and babies, some who will have died through neglect or ill treatment.

Some arrangers get qualifications in bereavement counselling.

[Ethel]

Part 3:

I suggest you write to your local large funeral provider expressing your interest and ask for the opportunity to talk about possible future career options within the company.

Here are the details of an embalming course:

http://www.learndirect-advice.co.uk/helpwithyo urcareer/jobprofiles/profiles/profile1006/

[derekpara]

It's worth finding out if there is a Modern Apprenticeship in undertaking. In which case, any college course would be government funded on a day release basis.

[RATTER15]

If you ask me it a dead end job.