Scotland`s fish and shellfish sector has long been recognised as one of the country`s most valuable food industries, supplying premium seafood to customers across the UK and around the world. From processors and wholesalers to independent retail fishmongers, the industry relies on a skilled workforce to maintain the high standards for which Scottish seafood is renowned. As the sector continues to evolve, businesses face the challenge of attracting new talent while developing the skills of existing employees.

To help address these challenges, Craft Skills Scotland is proud to be working alongside the Scottish Seafood Association and Seafish to support the delivery and promotion of Fish & Shellfish Modern Apprenticeships. Together, we are helping to build a stronger, more resilient workforce that will support the long-term success of Scotland`s seafood industry.

Building on its reputation for delivering high-quality vocational training, Craft Skills Scotland has expanded its apprenticeship offering to support businesses across the seafood supply chain. Working closely with employers and industry partners, the organisation delivers practical, flexible training that equips apprentices with the technical knowledge, confidence and professional skills needed to build successful careers in fish and shellfish processing, preparation and retail.

Modern Apprenticeships combine workplace experience with nationally recognised qualifications, allowing apprentices to earn while they learn. This hands-on approach enables learners to develop their skills in a real working environment while making an immediate contribution to their employer. Whether employed in a processing facility or serving customers behind the counter of a traditional fishmonger`s shop, apprentices gain valuable industry experience while working towards recognised qualifications.

Craft Skills Scotland understands that every seafood business is different. From family-owned retail fishmongers and local smokehouses to large-scale processors and exporters, each employer has unique priorities and operational requirements. That`s why every apprenticeship programme is developed in partnership with employers, ensuring training reflects the needs of individual businesses while maintaining the highest industry standards.

The programmes cover a broad range of practical and professional skills, including seafood preparation, product knowledge, food safety, quality assurance, health and safety, sustainability and customer service. For retail fishmongers, apprentices also develop the specialist skills needed to prepare fish, advise customers on cooking methods, promote Scottish seafood and deliver the personal service that independent fishmongers are renowned for. Alongside technical expertise, learners build transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving and continuous improvement.

For employers, investing in apprenticeships offers long-term benefits beyond achieving qualifications. Developing talent from within helps improve staff retention, strengthen succession planning and create future supervisors and business leaders. As skills shortages continue to affect many sectors, apprenticeships provide a sustainable way to attract new entrants while preserving the traditional craftsmanship and specialist knowledge that have been passed down through generations of seafood professionals.

Craft Skills Scotland prides itself on delivering a personalised approach to learning. Experienced assessors work alongside employers and apprentices throughout the programme, ensuring training is flexible, relevant and fits around the demands of the workplace. Through its collaboration with the Scottish Seafood Association and Seafish, the organisation is helping ensure training remains closely aligned with the evolving needs of the seafood industry and supports businesses of every size across Scotland.

As Scotland`s seafood industry looks to the future, investing in people is just as important as investing in equipment and technology. By working collaboratively with industry partners, employers, the Scottish Seafood Association and Seafish, Craft Skills Scotland is helping to develop the next generation of skilled seafood professionals, supporting businesses across the sector and ensuring Scotland`s proud fish and shellfish heritage continues to thrive for many years to come.

Contact: claire@craftskills.scot
01738 637785

Useful Links from Seafish:
Fish species
Shellfish species
Training Preparation Masterclass series
Careers in the UK seafood industry
UK Seafood in Numbers 2024