Meat Education Programme sees growth during lockdown
The number of new students signing up to the scheme has increased by 50% since government restrictions began, with registrants investing more of their time to complete as evidenced by pass rates increasing by 10%.
AHDB said that while the nationwide lockdown has forced much of the meat industry to shut up shop, many are taking the opportunity to brush up on their meat expertise with the free online tool.
The programme, launched in 2016, is designed for butchers, meat suppliers, chefs and front of house colleagues’ alike to advance and hone their skills. It primarily provides practical and theoretical butchery for beef, lamb and pork, and cooking skills to offer the optimal customer service experience.
AHDB’s programme development manager and master butcher Dick Van Leeuwen said: “The programme was launched in 2016 to help bring much needed skills and expertise to the meat industry. Four years on and we have awarded almost 9,000 certificates, that’s 9,000 more meat experts able to make the best of their great produce and help drive their business.
“It’s really positive that those with a bit of unexpected extra time on their hands are taking advantage of the programme. I hope more will, after all it’s free, tailored to your role and business, and best of all you can take the exam as many times as you need.”
