Butchery Apprenticeship Programme

Shrewsbury, England, United Kingdom

1/14/2025

ABP Food Group is one of Europe's leading integrated agri-food businesses, with divisions specialising in food production, pet food and renewables. Over our 70-year history, we have grown to 14,000 strong team and have built a reputation for quality and innovation. Our Early Careers programme offers opportunities across all of our divisions including apprenticeships, graduate and industrial placement pathways.

ABP UK, part of the ABP Food Group produces quality fresh and frozen beef, lamb and frozen meat-free products to some of the nations leading supermarkets and restaurants, including a number of Michelin Star establishments -Find out more below about how to become part of team!

Ready to carve out your career in the meat industry? Join our Butchery Apprenticeship Programme and learn from the best in the business!

Location: Shrewsbury

Salary: £9.50 per hour

Why Choose ABP UK?

Hands-On Experience: Dive into the world of butchery with real, hands-on learning from day one.

Career Growth: This is more than just a job-it's a launchpad for a dynamic career in the meat industry, with opportunities to advance into specialised roles or management.

Sustainability: Work with a company committed to animal welfare and securing our business for the future.

Professional Development: Gain qualifications and skills that are recognised by the Institute of Meat (IoM).

Supportive Team: Learn from experienced mentors and be part of a supportive, dynamic team.

Role Definition

As a Butchery Apprentice at ABP UK, you'll gain foundational knowledge and practical skills in butchery, contributing to the production of award-winning British and Irish beef and lamb products. You'll learn about quality, efficiency, traceability, sustainability, animal welfare, stress prevention, and lean manufacturing practices. This apprenticeship is a foundation for a fulfilling career in meat processing.

Key Responsibilities

• Learn the Basics: Acquire foundational knowledge in butchery principles, meat species, and carcass processing techniques.
• Master Your Craft: Develop knife skills for cutting, boning, trimming, and mincing meat.
• Gain Industry Insight: Understand the meat sector's history, values, culture, and traditions.
• Team Collaboration: Work with the team to meet deadlines and productivity targets.
• Maintain Standards: Adhere to health, food safety, and hygiene standards.
• Support Operations: Assist in stock control, quality assurance, and customer expectations.
  
  

Personal Attributes

• Safety First: Take personal responsibility for health and food safety.
• Eager to Learn: Show a willingness to learn, solve problems, and acquire new skills.
• Punctual & Reliable: Be diligent, reliable, and respectful towards customers and colleagues.
• Attention to Detail: Perform tasks diligently and understand the importance of efficiency for business profitability.
• Team Spirit: Maintain the vision and ethos of the business, taking pride in your work and fostering positive relationships with colleagues.
  
  

Qualifications & Skills

• No formal qualifications required! We'll support you towards completing your Level 1 Functional Skills.
• Enthusiasm for the industry and a commitment to completing your apprenticeship.
• Keen to develop your skills and grow within the company.
  
  

Future Career Path Progression

Upon completing your apprenticeship, you'll gain qualifications including:

• Level 2 Food Safety Award
• Level 2 Health & Safety in the Food Supply Chain Award
• Level 2 Knife Skills Award
  
  

This apprenticeship is a stepping stone to advanced qualifications and specialised roles within ABP UK. You'll also be recognised by the Institute of Meat (IoM), enabling you to use the initials M.Inst.M. Continue your journey in sustainable butchery, retail, or further education in the broader meat industry.