Butchery Apprentice | Shrewsbury

Job Role:

As a Butchery Apprentice at ABP UK, you will embark on a hands-on learning experience, gaining foundational knowledge and practical skills in the art of butchery. Working within our dynamic team, you’ll contribute to the production of award-winning British and Irish beef and lamb products, aligning with our commitment to quality, efficiency, traceability, and sustainability, as well as learning about animal welfare, stress prevention, and lean manufacturing practices.

Your apprenticeship will be a journey of continuous learning the latest butchery techniques. This apprenticeship is a foundation for a fulfilling career in meat processing. Post-apprenticeship, advance within the butchery team or explore management roles. This isn’t just a stepping stone; it’s a launchpad for a dynamic, rewarding butchery career, supported by ongoing professional development and experienced mentors.

Working Monday to Friday, initially from 8am but gradually moving towards 6:30am, you will undertake practical and theory based learnings.

Working fours days per week on practical skills, learning cuts and specifications whilst training to process products to the required standard. You will then spend one day per week onsite learning theory aspects of anatomy, food science and developing functional skills.

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

– Acquire foundational knowledge in butchery principles, meat species, and carcass processing techniques

– Learn and apply craft and knife skills for cutting, boning, trimming, and mincing meat.

– Gain knowledge about the meat sector’s history, values, culture, and traditions.

– Collaborate with the team to meet deadlines and productivity targets in a busy environment

– Adhere to health, food safety, and hygiene standards in the butchery environment

– Support stock control, quality assurance, and customer expectations

Personal Attributes:

– Take personal operational responsibility for health and food safety.

– Display a willingness to learn, solve problems, and acquire new skills.

– Be punctual, reliable, diligent, and respectful towards customers, peers, and colleagues.

– Show attention to detail, carrying out duties diligently, and understanding how efficiency supports business profitability.

– Maintain the vision and ethos of the business, taking pride in work and fostering positive relationships with colleagues.

Knowledge and Experience:

– At ABP Shrewsbury, you will be working alongside, and trained by industry professionals. We take pride in ensuring that all apprentices gain the knowledge and experience needed to have a rewarding career in the growing industry.

– No formal qualifications required. However, as part of the programme we will support you towards completing your Level 1 Functions Skills

– Good timekeeping and ability to work under own initiative

– Enthusiasm for our industry and working towards completing your apprenticeships

– Keen to learn and develop your skills

– A team player with excellent communication skillsSkillsYou will also have access to our benefits package:

– Cycle to work scheme.

– Subsidised canteen serving hot meals.

– Discounted gym membership.

– Mobile phone discounts.

– Life insurance.

– Free onsite parking.

– Referral programme with financial incentives.

– Highstreet store discounts.

– Wellness programme.

– Loyalty bonuses.

Future Career Path Progression:

As part of completing your apprenticeship you will gain the following qualifications: Level 2 Food Safety Award, Level 2 Health & Safety in the Food Supply Chain Award, and Level 2 Knife Skills Award

This apprenticeship serves as a stepping stone for your butchery career. Successful completion opens pathways to advanced qualifications and specialised roles within ABP UK. As you continue to grow, explore opportunities in sustainable butchery, retail, or pursue further education in the broader meat industry. Following completion, apprentices are recognised by the Institute of Meat (IoM), enabling them to use the initials M.Inst.M. Join us on this journey and shape your future with ABP UK!