First industry apprenticeship programme launched

The Co-Operative Funeralcare has today unveiled the UK’s first funeral apprenticeship programme.

Ahead of National Apprenticeship Week, Funeralcare has launched its new on the job framework to allow all new employees to gain nationally recognised qualifications within the industry.

Designed in partnership with the Sector Skills Council and awarding body EDI, Funeralcare’s apprenticeship incorporates QCF (formerly known as NVQ) Level 2 and an NVQ Level 3 in Funeral Operations and Services.

Head of HR at the Co-operative Funeralcare Karen Fenton said: “We piloted nine apprenticeships across the country through the Co-operative Group’s apprenticeships and the prospect to expand this figure is phenomenal.

“We are providing apprentices with unique opportunities to enable them to feel valued and be part of a business that has social responsibility and ethics at its heart. Sadly, we still have a situation whereby far too many people are out of work in the UK and we believe that businesses have a real responsibility to provide new long term career opportunities so that talented people with the right behaviours are supported, motivated and nurtured.

“There are many people looking for opportunities such as this and we have been overwhelmed by the hard work and commitment our new apprentices have already shown in their roles.”