Meat inspector apprenticeship scheme in the making
A formal Apprentice Occupational Scheme for meat inspectors is being created in a bid to assist with a ‘lack of trained staff’ in the sector.
A new apprenticeship scheme for meat inspectors could be in place as early as 2019.
Eville & Jones is leading the scheme and states that the shortage of skilled labour in this sector is a direct result of Brexit.
The company intends to launch the Apprenticeship Occupation for Meat Inspectors in early 2019 and is working closely with the Institute of Apprenticeships in submitting an application to operate the initiative.
Eville & Jones managing director, Jason Aldiss, commented: “We have an ongoing planning process within the business that includes our training provision. The option to open an Apprentice Occupational Scheme has been under consideration for some time and we have decided to proceed with this initiative given the long term reduction in UK-trained MHIs (Meat Health Inspectors).
“I believe this will provide a solid foundation in establishing a long term solution in providing industry with qualified staff able to deliver meat inspection.”
Aldiss added that Eville & Jones is in the process of establishing a trailblazer group to lead the initiative.
The scheme organisers will work closely with the FDQ team – a subsidiary of the Food & Drink Training & Education Council (ftc) in building the programme.
Chief Executive of FDQ Terry Fennell added: “We are delighted that Eville & Jones have decided to proceed with this initiative. It makes good sense to build the meat industry’s skill sets, especially within this specialised area of food safety.”
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