Tasha Devey

Tasha Devey

Bakkavor apprentice Tasha Devey has notched up a notable milestone.

She has been named by the National Skills Academy as England’s 2,000th food industry apprentice of 2014, following her completion of the IPQ level 3 Diploma in Food Industry Skills last year.

Bakkavor, which specialises in the manufacture of fresh prepared foods, has taken on over 40 apprentices since launching its group scheme back in 2011.

Today, the company offers 14 different types of apprenticeship, and plans to take on 25 new apprentices in September.

Devey said: “I am really enjoying working at Bakkavor as it has given me the chance to earn and learn, an opportunity that wouldn’t necessarily be available within other areas of higher education.”

Pippa Greenslade, group HR director, added: “We are delighted that Tasha has been recognised by the National Skills Academy just as National Apprenticeship Week kicks off. The long-term future of any business relies on recruiting the best workforce, and apprenticeships present a great way of supporting local talent and building skills for the food industry.”