Leeds City College

Two butchery apprentices have been nominated for the York Butchers Guild Annual Butchery Apprentice Awards, as a result of their commitment to learning.

Tom Ridley and Jenny Walker, who have both studied Butcher Apprenticeship Level 2 at Leeds City College, have been selected by their tutors as outstanding students who deserve recognition for their hard work.

Tom, who did his apprenticeship at Richmond-based Mainsgill Farm Shop, has been put forward for the Apprentice of the Year award.

“I began my butchery journey three years ago with minimal knowledge, skills and experience, however I had an open mind and eagerness to learn. I gained fantastic knowledge and abilities through my apprenticeship, enabling me to become a valuable member of my work team.

“The support from both the team at Mainsgill Farm Shop and Leeds City College has allowed me to keep growing my career and flourish within the industry.

“I hope to move on to the Advanced Butcher Apprenticeship Level 3 at college, which I hope will help me work towards a promotion to assistant supervisor. I’m really proud to have been nominated for this award as it demonstrates how valuable hard work and determination is.”

Tom’s tutor, Kyle Lynley, nominated him in recognition of his outstanding coursework, leadership qualities and constant commitment.

“Tom’s continuous enthusiasm for his apprenticeship and the meat industry as a whole makes him an ideal candidate. We’re always impressed with the high standard of his work and the staff at Mainsgill praised him for his outstanding leadership qualities.

“It’s fantastic to see how committed Tom is to his local community’s food trades and workplace-organised events across North Yorkshire. His overall positive attitude, organisation and passion towards the industry deserves acknowledgement.”

Jenny began her butchery apprenticeship four years ago and recently completed her level 2 apprenticeship at Goodworth Brothers Butchers in Pontefract.

“I developed an interest in butchery after conducting research into the rich history and craftsmanship of the meat industry, soon realising that there were many exciting opportunities available.

“Studying at Leeds City College gave me the key building blocks of knowledge to begin understanding what a career in butchery entailed. My apprenticeship has been incredibly valuable, equipping me with essential practical skills to help me become a successful butcher.

“In the future, I’d love to experience work in various butchers to expand my knowledge while learning new techniques. I’m very passionate about supporting people in developing their skills, so I’d love the opportunity to educate the next generation of butchers.”

Paul Biggs and Paul Muscroft, who are partners at Goodworth Brothers Butchers, have been working with Jenny since 2017.

“Jenny has shown a great level of commitment and independent learning; she constantly wants to improve both practical skills and theory. She displays excellent levels of communication to staff and customers, along with impeccable service skills.

“We’re highly proud that Jenny has been nominated for this award, as she is extremely committed to the butchery industry and aiding us at the butchers. She’s a fantastic candidate for her category.”