Demand for poultry apprenticeships grows
Demand for poultry training is on the rise, according to the British Poultry Council (BPC), which estimated there are some 250 apprentices on industry training schemes.
According to data from the BPC, there are up to 20 applicants for each apprenticeship advertised.
Improve, the skills body for food manufacturing, has also revealed that a target of recruiting 50,000 apprentices across food manufacture and agriculture has been surpassed.
The apprenticeship drive across all parts of the food chain was part of a response to common challenges, according to Improve’s chief executive, Justine Fosh; an ageing workforce, and the skills required to operate new technologies.
The data was released during National Apprenticeship Week, which Peter Bradnock, chief executive of the BPC said “pays tribute to sectors such as the poultry industry, which is investing in talented young people”.
Why a poultry apprenticeship?
- The BPC believes that there are compelling reasons to become a poultry apprentice:
- Currently 250 apprentices on programme
- Flexible, on-the-job training
- Good salary – farm managers earn upwards of £30,000 a year
- Apprentices are paid up to £241 a week depending on age
- Perks often include a house or a company car
“There are a huge number of opportunities available to become an apprentice in the poultry industry, on farms, in hatcheries or in processing plants,” he added.
Nathan Raines, academy manager at Poultec Training said the news was encouraging, given traditional difficulties filling agricultural apprenticeship places.
“The industry is well paid, it attracts people who like to work with animals and is crying out for qualified and enthusiastic young people.”
Those considering a poultry apprenticeship can contact an employer directly, Poultec, or via the National Apprenticeship Service.
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