A leading South West cider producer is launching a specialist Orcharding Apprenticeship scheme to get local youngsters learning the skills of growing cider apples.

Shepton Mallet Cider Mill, together with Yeovil College and local growers in Somerset, have developed the scheme to encourage more young people to opt for a career in an agricultural sector with the South West its heartland.

Globally, sales of high quality British cider have never been stronger, as consumers chose it as their drink of choice not only in the UK and Europe but around the world. Somerset has long been synonymous with cider production and the industry is keen to preserve this position by training a new generation of cider makers with specialised orcharding skills, creating a workforce to sustain the future of the cider industry.

The new Orcharding Apprenticeship programme starts this September and the Cider Mill is already interviewing for the first intake of new recruits eager to learn about Orchard Management.

Bob Chaplin, Master Cider Maker at Shepton Mallet Cider Mill said: “We identified we need good, young workers available to meet the increasing demand from cider makers and growers for trained, knowledgeable and skilled staff to work in cider orchards.

“It’s vital that we preserve the skills that generations of cider makers have perfected and passed on. The scheme has been created to ensure we have a plan in place which does just that. “The programme will also create valuable employment and training opportunities for students across Somerset and the South West.”

The industry is led by well-known names, such as the Shepton Mallet Cider Mill with its portfolio of iconic South West cider brands, including: Blackthorn, Olde English, Addlestones and Natch.

Bob added: “There has never been a better time to join the industry and I’m excited about this scheme. The quality of candidates have been very high and it’s great to introduce fresh blood that have a desire for long term employment in the apple industry.

“Cider makers play an important role in their local and rural communities, and our Orcharding Apprenticeship reflects the commitment and investment we are making in the region. We are confident the programme will address a skills gap and protect the continuing growth of British cider for decades to come.”

The programme will combine academic study with practical experience, including working alongside growers to learn how to plant apple trees, harvesting techniques and how to manage an orchard.

For more information or to find out how to apply, please contact Yeovil College on 01935 845392 or email training@yeovil.ac.uk.