ABP – Butchery Apprenticeship Programme – Yetminster, Sherborne DT9 6HQ

Overview

The ABP UK Butchery Apprenticeship Programme is a fantastic opportunity to start a career in one of Europe’s leading agri-food businesses while gaining practical skills and a recognised qualification.

Over the course of the programme, apprentices will learn all aspects of butchery including carcass processing, knife skills, trimming, boning, mincing, and understanding meat quality, traceability, hygiene, and food safety standards.

You will work alongside experienced butchery professionals and mentors in a fast-paced production environment, gaining real, hands-on experience from day one. The programme is designed for people with no prior experience—just a strong work ethic, willingness to learn, and a positive attitude.

Alongside technical training, apprentices will also develop wider employability skills such as teamwork, communication, time management, problem-solving, and confidence in a workplace setting.

This apprenticeship provides a strong foundation for future progression into skilled butchery roles, production supervision, quality assurance, or further training within the food manufacturing industry.

About the Employer

ABP UK, part of ABP Food Group, is one of Europe’s largest agri-food companies with over 70 years of experience in food production, pet food, and renewable energy.

The company supplies high-quality beef, lamb, and meat-free products to major UK supermarkets and restaurants, including Michelin-star establishments.

ABP is committed to sustainability, animal welfare, innovation, and developing future talent through structured apprenticeship and early careers programmes.

Training to be Delivered

Apprentices will receive structured on-the-job training supported by experienced mentors and external providers.

Training includes:

• Knife skills and butchery techniques
• Meat processing and carcass preparation
• Food hygiene and safety compliance
• Lean manufacturing and efficiency practices
• Animal welfare and traceability awareness
• Workplace communication and teamwork