Butchery Apprenticeship

ABP UK, part of the ABP Food Group, produces quality fresh and frozen beef, lamb and frozen meat-free products to some of the nation’s leading supermarkets and restaurants, including a number of Michelin Star establishments.

Join our Butchery Apprenticeship Programme and learn from the best in the business! No experience? No problem — if you’ve got the right attitude, we’ll teach you the rest.

Why Choose ABP UK?

Hands-On Experience

Dive into the world of butchery with real, hands-on learning from day one

Career Growth

This is more than just a job—it's a launchpad for a dynamic career in the meat industry, with opportunities to advance into specialised roles or management.

Sustainability

Work with a company committed to animal welfare and securing our business for the future.

Supportive Team

Learn from experienced mentors and be part of a supportive, dynamic team.

Butchery Super Days

Take part in exciting three-day learning experiences delivered with our training provider, designed to bring your apprenticeship to life in a practical and engaging way. From sausage making and industry guest speakers to exploring areas beyond beef and lamb such as wild game, plus farm visits to understand the full field-to-fork journey, you’ll gain hands-on experiences that support your learning in a memorable way.

Recognition & Rewards

This programme doesn’t just give you great training — it gives you the chance to earn great money too. You’ll start on £12.71 per hour from day one, which is well above the National Minimum Wage for an apprenticeship, and you could earn up to an extra £2,500 during the programme through milestone incentive payments that recognise your hard work, progress and commitment.

Skills for the Future You

This programme is designed to support more than just your technical development. You’ll also build important life skills through learning about money management, time management, British Values, respect and shared values in our business, mental health awareness, confidence and communication skills—helping you succeed both at work and in everyday life.

Role Definition

As a Butchery Apprentice at ABP UK, you'll gain foundational knowledge and practical skills in butchery, contributing to the production of award-winning British and Irish beef and lamb products. You'll learn about quality, efficiency, traceability, sustainability, animal welfare, stress prevention, and lean manufacturing practices. This apprenticeship is a Level 2 programme that will give you the foundations for a fulfilling career in meat processing.

Key Responsibilities

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Learn the Basics

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

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Master Your Craft

Develop knife skills for cutting, boning, trimming, and mincing meat.

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Gain Industry Insight

Understand the meat sector's history, values, culture, and traditions.

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Team Collaboration

Work with the team to meet deadlines and productivity targets.

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Maintain Standards

Adhere to health, food safety, and hygiene standards.

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Support Operations

Assist in stock control, quality assurance, and customer expectations.

Personal Attributes

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Safety First

Take personal responsibility for health and food safety.

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Eager to Learn

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

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Punctual & Reliable

Be diligent, reliable, and respectful towards customers and colleagues.

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Attention to Detail

Perform tasks diligently and understand the importance of efficiency for business profitability.

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Team Spirit

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

If you’re ready to start earning, learn practical skills and build a future career, this could be the opportunity for you.

Qualifications & Skills

• No formal qualifications required! We'll support you towards completing your Level 1 Functional Skills.
• Enthusiasm for the industry and a commitment to completing your apprenticeship.
• Keen to develop your skills and grow within the company.

Future Career Path Progression

This apprenticeship is a stepping stone to advanced qualifications and specialised roles within ABP UK. Continue your journey in sustainable butchery, retail, or further education in the broader meat industry.