A Butchery Academy has been launched by red meat supplier Pilgrim’s Europe, as the company announces the first cohort of trainees at its Westerleigh site.
Pilgrim’s Europe said the academy offers “paid training, recognised qualifications and long-term career opportunities” for anyone looking to develop specialist craft butchery skills.
The academy comes as the sector has faced a skilled butcher shortage, said Pilgrim’s Europe, as well as a “significant decline” in the number of abattoirs serving local farmers.
Trainee butchers will undergo a combination of classroom learning and hands-on experience with on-site teams, with the programme aiming to build core technical skills alongside health and safety, and food hygiene knowledge. It will look to prepare trainees for progression onto production lines and future roles within the industry.
Successful trainees will become a Grade 2 Butcher within 12 weeks, earning a competitive wage while training, said Pilgrim’s. The business said it is also offering “ongoing development opportunities” for those individuals who are keen to progress in their careers to Grade 1.
“Building a skilled and sustainable workforce means creating clear entry routes, strong development pathways and long-term career opportunities.”
Kirsty Wilkins, Pilgrim’s Europe
Ed Hillier, Westerleigh site director at Pilgrim’s Europe and lead sponsor of the Butchery Academy, said: “Just as access to a local abattoir is a major priority for farmers, investment in our people and butchery skills is critical to the continued viability of both our Westerleigh site and Pilgrim’s farm-to-fork quality British pork model.
“The Butchery Academy at Westerleigh reflects our focus on developing local talent, supporting our workforce and strengthening the resilience of the UK food supply chain and the communities that depend on it.”
Kirsty Wilkins, chief people officer at Pilgrim’s Europe, added: “Building a skilled and sustainable workforce means creating clear entry routes, strong development pathways and long-term career opportunities. The Butchery Academy plays an important role in attracting new talent into the business, supporting progression and ensuring we continue to invest in the skills our people need to grow and succeed.”
