New dairy training centre cuts skills shortage

A new dairy technology training centre in Cheshire is a major step in a bid to reduce the serious skills shortages in the sector.

The £2.7m Eden International Dairy Academy at Reaseheath College has state of the art facilities. And a new foundation degree in dairy technology ensures students will leave with the skills needed to develop the industry’s future.

Speaking at the opening of the training centre yesterday (10 June), Arla’s supply chain director Jens Termansen, explained how the plan came about because of the skills shortage the UK dairy industry was facing.

The academy is the product of various companies including Dairy UK, Arla Foods, Robert Wiseman Dairies, First Milk, Milk Link, Muller Dairy, Dairy Crest, the National Skills Academy for Food and Drink Manufacturing and Reaseheath College.

Dairy UK’s Jim Begg said the UK can now boast one of the best equipped training dairies in the world. “The investment is necessary for the industry to maintain a positive position in the world.”

“The Academy is a major vote of confidence in the future of the industry. Dairy farmers, processors and retailers should interpret this as a sign that the UK is serious about building and maintaining an important role in the global dairy sector.”