Celebrating Great British Beef Week: Why Supporting UK Farming Matters for Our Future Workforce

At WTD, we’re passionate about skills, sustainability, and the future of work — and this week, we’re also celebrating something a little juicier: Great British Beef Week!

Now in its 14th year, this annual celebration isn’t just about showcasing quality British beef — it’s about recognising the farmers, butchers, chefs, and food professionals who bring it from field to fork. And for us, it’s a powerful reminder of the vital role skills training plays across the UK’s food and hospitality industries.

What Is Great British Beef Week?

Great British Beef Week (22–30 April 2025) is a national campaign led by the Ladies in Beef, a group of female beef farmers passionate about British agriculture. Their goal?To raise awareness of sustainable UK farming, support local producers, and highlight the value of buying British beef.

But it’s also a chance to shine a light on the people behind the scenes — including those learning the ropes through apprenticeships and skills training.

From Farm to Table: The Hidden Workforce Behind British Beef

British beef is renowned worldwide for its quality, traceability, and animal welfare standards. But maintaining that reputation takes more than just good livestock — it takes skilled people at every stage of the supply chain.

From:

• Livestock technicians and farm managers

• Chefs and kitchen assistants

• Butchers and retail workers

• Food production operators

Each plays a critical role — and many enter the industry through vocational training and apprenticeships.

How Apprenticeships Support the UK Food Sector

Our apprenticeships provide:

✔️ Hands-on learning in real workplaces

✔️ Nationally recognised qualifications

✔️ Fully funded, debt-free training

✔️ Career progression into supervisory and specialist roles

Great British Beef Week is a perfect opportunity to remind learners and employers that careers in food are full of flavour and future potential.

Sustainability, Skills & the Future

This year's theme also emphasises sustainable beef production — another area where apprentices can make a difference.

Training future professionals in eco-conscious farming, energy-efficient kitchen practices, and ethical sourcing ensures we build a workforce ready for tomorrow’s challenges.

Whether it’s a young person learning to cook sustainably or a butcher-in-training mastering precision cuts, apprenticeships create real impact — for businesses, for communities, and for the environment.

How Employers Can Get Involved

Employers across the hospitality and food production sectors can:

• Partner with WTD to host apprentices

• Upskill existing staff through funded training

• Promote career pathways through case studies and events

By doing so, you’re not just closing skills gaps — you’re investing in the heart of Britain’s food culture.

Final Thoughts: Celebrate & Support

This Great British Beef Week, let’s celebrate quality, sustainability, and skills. Whether you're a learner, employer, or simply someone who enjoys a great Sunday roast — remember that behind every bite is a workforce worth investing in.

👉 Explore our Food and Drink apprenticeships

👉 Get in touch with WTD

Let’s build the future of British food — one apprenticeship at a time.