Tasha Devey, a 21 year-old trainee with international prepared foods company Bakkavor, has become the 2,000th person to complete an apprenticeship in the UK’s food manufacturing sector in 2014 according to new data released by the National Skills Academy for Food & Drink.
The new figures show 2014 was a record year for successful apprenticeship completions in the industry with 2,000 certificates issued in England – continuing an upward trend with more than 7,000 apprenticeships completed in the past five years.
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The Spalding-based Devey, who aims to become a manager, commented: “Bakkavor are a great example of a company who encourage apprentices to reach their full potential.
“This apprenticeship, delivered by an excellent provider in the University of Lincoln, provides a
Congratulating Devey on her achievement, chief executive of the National Skills Academy for Food & Drink, Justine Fosh said: “The Advanced Apprenticeship is demanding and provides a level of stretch and challenge so Tasha can be proud of herself.”
Amy Wright, Bakkavor’s Group HR recruitment officer noted that apprentices at the company were seen as leaders of the future: “Our well established apprentice scheme allows for a combination of practical training with focused college work which in turn allows the apprentice to bring new ideas and fresh thinking, as well as having the confidence to challenge the way we do things.
“Apprenticeships are a great way of investing in young talent for the future and will result in the business having great young people that have the potential to develop specific and unique skills for the food industry.”
