Tesco has marked National Apprenticeship Week by announcing a major expansion of its Stronger Starts programme.
The retailer will introduce five times more places on the programme in 2025 and is targeting 1,500 apprenticeship opportunities for young people by 2027. The initiative is part of Tesco’s efforts to help tackle the challenge of youth unemployment in England and remove the barriers many young people face to entering education, employment, or training.
Following the success of an initial cohort of 82 apprentices in 2024, Tesco is expanding this year’s intake to 450 places. The group’s One Stop convenience store subsidiary is also offering 10 Stronger Starts Apprenticeships for the first time.
Tesco’s Stronger Starts Apprenticeship programme aims to eliminate barriers to entry and is one of the few apprenticeship programmes in England that does not require applicants to have any qualifications or experience when they start. Tesco pays apprentices the same as shop floor staff no matter their age or experience level, helping young people break into employment regardless of their background.
Apprentices participating in the 15-month programme receive comprehensive training, combining hands-on experience with academic qualifications. Upon completion of the programme, apprentices gain the equivalent of five GCSEs, plus Functional Skills qualifications in Maths and English for those who need them. All participants on the scheme will have the opportunity to become permanent Tesco store staff.
Emma Taylor, chief people officer at Tesco, commented: “Everyone deserves a chance to secure good, rewarding work. Unfortunately, many young people face barriers to opportunity, but with the right support, this can change. The Stronger Starts programme exemplifies how quality training can help young people make a positive start in their careers and gain essential skills and qualifications. By expanding this initiative, we’re giving even more young people the tools and confidence they need to build a brighter future.”
