The unique nature and fast pace of the food industry makes it one of the best sectors to work in if you want to get ahead in whatever food job you choose. In many cases, career progression can be achieve through time and experience, working your way up the ladder acquiring new skills as you go.
However, this is not always the case, and you may find that you need extra training or qualifications in order to get where you want to be, especially if you have an unusual or difficult personal situation. But how do you accomplish this?
The following are a few examples of the many excellent career development opportunities available at present:
Learning grants and loans - These can be the best way to learn whilst still earning enough money to support yourself. For example, the Adult Learning Grant will pay you up to £30 a week to help support you whilst you study for your first Level 2 or Level 3 qualification. There is also the Career Development Loan, the Educational Maintenance Allowance and many other Learner Support Funds.
Scholarships - Both undergraduates and postgraduates can apply for scholarships, mainly available for those aiming for engineering and manufacturing food jobs.
Train to Gain - If you're employer is involved in this Learning and Skills Council scheme, you as an employee can benefit from priority training in the specialist skills needed to do your food job effectively, as well as from help progressing in both the organisation you work for and your career.
