Developing graduate and employability skills within a mathematical sciences programme

A cushion for forming the seat or back of an upholstered chair comprises a rigid unitary body member having a central, relatively flat portion between two marginal edge portions with upstanding ridges formed along each of the two edge portions. The ridges define a central depressed portion which is capable of receiving one or more layers of foam. A foam layer covers both the central layer or layers of foam and wraps over and around the edge ridges to pad the ridges. The ridges thereby serve to reduce precompression of the central foam layer or layers after the form is finished with a covering of upholstery. A chair having cushions with enhanced softness is thereby achieved. In another aspect of the invention, a form for a chair back includes a series of vertical spaced ribs in the lumbar region of the chair back. The ribs also serve to enhance the compressibility of the foam.