London, March 11, 2013 – Figures from the British Poultry Council have revealed that demand for poultry apprenticeships is on the rise with up to 20 applicants applying for each advertised apprenticeship position. The rise in demand for apprenticeships has been announced to coincide with the launch of the sixth annual National Apprenticeship Week which takes place from 11-15 March 2013. It is supported by manufacturing industries across the UK, including the British Poultry industry.
Welcoming National Apprenticeship Week, Peter Bradnock, Chief Executive of the British Poultry Council, commented:
“National Apprenticeship Week pays tribute to sectors such as the poultry industry which is investing in talented young people. “To see such a high level of demand for apprenticeships in the industry is a real indication of the value of a career in poultry production and food manufacturing. There are a huge number of opportunities available to become an apprentice in the poultry industry, on farms, in hatcheries or in processing plants. We’re delighted that so many young people are considering this highly rewarding career.”
David Way, Chief Executive of the National Apprenticeship Service, said:
“I regularly speak to employers who tell me about the benefits that Apprenticeships bring to their business. This provides further hard evidence that Apprenticeships really are improving business and transforming lives.
“Apprentices not only increase productivity but also bring creativity and dynamism into the workplace; the very best examples of which are being showcased in this year’s National Apprenticeship Week.”
Nathan Raines, Academy Manager at Poultec Training Ltd, who provide Apprenticeships for the Poultry industry as well as a range of other sectors, commented: “We have seen a clear upward trend across the board in demand for apprenticeships this year, particularly in the poultry industry, which is highly competitive. This is very encouraging considering agricultural apprenticeships have traditionally been hard to fill. “The industry is well paid, it attracts people who like to work with animals and is crying out for qualified and enthusiastic young people.”
