UK’s ‘first apprenticeship for brewers’ launched

11-Feb-2019 - Last updated on 11-Feb-2019 at 13:41 GMT

Brewing the future: a new apprenticeship will cover the science and safety of brewing

An 18-month course will offer aspiring beer makers the chance to gain a qualification in brewing in the first apprenticeship of its kind.

The Level 4 course has been facilitated by the British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) and is the result of HIT Training partnering with industry bodies and brewers.

Topics will range from ingredient provenance to safe use of equipment and learners will be taught via work experience and online resources.

Envy of the world

HIT Training called the apprenticeship "brilliant news"

BBPA chief executive Brigid Simmonds said the course would “open the door for the brewers of the future,” helping the country lead the way in its brewing success.

“Britain’s beer and pub industry is the envy of the world, but to secure future growth we need to nurture our own talent, which is why apprenticeships are so important,” she said.

There will be six two-day residential workshops covering brewing techniques and chemistry, run by the University of Nottingham’s International Centre for Brewing Science.

Apprentices will also learn via online resources created by the Institute of Brewing & Distilling (IBD).

HIT Training managing director Jill Whittaker said: “We’re extremely proud to have been part of the trailblazer group that has developed the brewer apprenticeship and to be among the first to deliver it to the sector.

“It’s brilliant news to see the sector taking control of its future and making sure it has the best workforce for the exciting time ahead via offering high-quality training opportunities such as this apprenticeship.”