Pubs and brewing group Greene King is to recruit 300 more apprentices, keeping it on track to meet a pledge made last year to deliver 10,000 apprenticeship opportunities over the next three years.

Bury St Edmunds-based Greene King launched its apprenticeship programme in 2011, since when more than 9,000 people have already participated in the scheme which offers roles for chefs, bar staff and front of house staff and combines on-the-job training and classroom learning.

Graham Briggs, apprenticeship manager at Greene King, said: “Apprenticeships offer an alternative and credible path for those looking to begin their career after leaving school or college, and earning money while doing so.

“We are particularly proud of our apprenticeship programme and the number of young people that it has helped to realise their ambitions of a rewarding career.

“As a leading business in the UK’s hospitality sector we’re also delighted that, through our scheme, we’re able to create a sustainable pipeline of skills for the future, ensuring that the industry continues to contribute to the UK’s economy and employment.”

Among those to have seen the benefits of the Greene King apprenticeship programme is Kieron Fisher who joined the scheme in February this year.

He said: “After receiving my A levels results, I was torn between going to university and staying in my current role as a team member at the Greene King’s Nottingham Knight pub.

“I was actually offered a place at university but found out about the company’s apprenticeship programme and applied straight away.

“I was enjoying my role so was really happy to be accepted onto the scheme, especially as it meant I’d be able to continue working with my team, who I get on well with, while gaining qualifications.”