Fresh prepared foods manufacturer Bakkavör is looking for 45 new apprentices to join the business in 2016. 

The company plans to recruit the apprentices at its UK sites.

Since launching its group scheme in 2011, the business has taken on 40 apprentices. The 14 types of apprenticeships the company offers include procurement, product development, HR, food technical, engineering and manufacturing.

There are two apprenticeship schemes offered by the company – the advanced apprenticeship scheme, a one year course tailored for school-leavers, typically those who have completed GCSEs; and the higher apprentice scheme, aimed at those who often have A-Level qualifications and are hoping to fast-track their career, as well as gain a relevant qualification.

The advanced apprenticeship is equivalent to a foundation degree, with the opportunity to convert to a full degree at the end of the apprenticeship. These apprenticeships last for two to three years, with the exception of engineering, which is a four-year scheme, due to the nature of the qualification achieved.

At the end of the schemes, all successful apprentices are offered permanent roles within the business.

Opportunities

Sophie Bellham, an apprentice who joined the company in 2015 and currently on the procurement scheme, said: “My apprenticeship at Bakkavör has given me genuine responsibility from the outset, and the opportunity to gain first-hand experience and insight into careers within the food manufacturing sector.

“Without this opportunity, I would never have known all the different types of roles available or have got my foot in the door of the food industry. It’s the perfect platform for beginning my career.”

Pippa Greenslade, group HR director at Bakkavör, said: “Apprenticeships make good business sense, and provide a great way of supporting young talent and building much-needed future skills for the food industry. We are delighted to be doubling our intake.”