Norbert is a specialist in traditional woodworking techniques and decorative finishes. After an apprenticeship in Germany, Norbert was awarded a BADA/West Dean Diploma in Restoration of Antique Furniture in 1984. This was followed by a number of employments as a restorer and instructor with companies in the UK, Switzerland and Thailand. He was course director of the HND courses at Rycotewood College in Thame, Oxfordshire and then returned, in 1996, to West Dean College to teach on the Conservation of Furniture and Furniture Making programmes.