Listen
Apprentices rise to the occasion
06/02/2012
More young people should consider a career in Scotland’s booming food and drink sector, Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead said today.
He was speaking as he met some of the eight apprentices at Maclean’s Highland Bakery in Forres who are learning the skills of the bakery profession.
Mr Lochhead said:
“The tremendous natural resources we have in Scotland mean we boast a larder that is second to none and our fine produce is increasingly sought after, both at home and abroad.
“So I’d encourage more young people to consider the wide range of career options available to them – everything from baking and confectionery to food technology, processing and product development.
“I’ve seen here, at Maclean’s in Forres, the enthusiasm their young apprentices have as they develop the skills that will stand them in good stead for the future. And, because their training is on-the-job, it minimises the time that trainees need to be away from the workplace – which is particularly important for rural businesses.
“Around the country there are many more young apprentices like I’ve met here - we’re committed to creating 25,000 Modern Apprenticeships in every year of this parliament as well as improving progression opportunities for those on apprenticeships.
“These are, undoubtedly, challenging economic times which can make it particularly difficult – especially for young people – to find employment. But our flourishing food and drink sector is continuing to buck the trend and providing a boost for our economy, alongside badly needed jobs.”
Apprentice Iain Nellis said:
“I joined Maclean’s straight from school and really enjoy working here. It is a great opportunity to learn new skills and practice until you do it really well. The trainers from Scottish Bakers are very down to earth and make the learning fun. You really feel part of the company when they invest the time and effort to make sure that you can do your job to national standards, it makes you want to do your best and repay this investment.”
Maclean’s Highland Bakery Managing Director Lewis Maclean said:
“Every single apprentice we have taken on so far proved to be energetic and keen to learn and develop new skills. We work closely with Moray Council offering work experience placements to 16 year old pupils every year. From doing this we can identify potential future employees and this has worked very well for us.
“Having a group of young and enthusiastic people to work with makes you think fresh and new, helps you realise that you can aim for more and achieve more. Taking part in the Scottish Government’s programme and supported by Scottish Bakers trainers has allowed me to grow our business further, and expand on export sales as far as China, Japan, and the USA over the last couple of years. It also demonstrates our investment in the people that work for us encouraging their personal development and social skills.”
Alan Clarke, Chief Executive of Scottish Bakers, said:
“The Scottish Government has identified the food and drink sector as a priority, which is not the case across the rest of the UK. This means that we are able to provide Apprenticeship training to employees of all ages within the bakery sector, therefore not only are we protecting the skills within the sector but we are further developing them to meet the changing needs of customers.”
Maclean’s Bakery currently employs eight apprentices – four working for apprenticeships in Food Manufacture and Retail Services and four working in Food Manufacture Specialist Management Skills.
Related information
Draft Youth Employment Strategy