Sainsbury’s will be the first supermarket group to launch an apprenticeship training scheme for bakers.

Developed with the Sector Skills Council, the 18 month programme aims to improve the UK skills pool in the retail sector.

The course will train adults between the ages of 16 and 24, offering nationally recognised qualifications, in key literacy, numeracy abilities and technical skills. It begins next week as a pilot scheme in the north east of England.

Project manager for the apprenticeship, Julia Reed said: "We've recognised that the number of skilled bakers is sharply declining and in response we are launching this dedicated initiative to attract people back into the trade and hone the skills of our future bakers.
"The Sainsbury's Bakery Apprenticeship Scheme is a great opportunity for young people to develop a career in retail and underlines our commitment to giving people a better start in life."