Food & Agriculture Graduate — Apprenticeship & Rotations

Eligibility & Requirements

Have completed, or are on track to complete, A levels or equivalent. Want a hands on start to your working life. Are motivated, reliable and keen to learn. Like the idea of building a long term career rather than just getting a job. You don't need any previous experience in food or agriculture - we're looking for enthusiasm, commitment and potential, not a perfect CV.

• A full UK driving licence (essential) – required because placements are based across rural locations and involve travelling between sites.
• The right to work in the UK.

The food and fresh produce industry is the largest manufacturing sector in the UK, and MDS develops talented people to become future leaders in this innovative, diverse and sustainable industry. MDS is a not-for-profit organisation established in 1986 by a group of forward-thinking growers concerned about the shortage of skilled managers within the industry. Today, our membership includes over 60 businesses across the food supply chain and continues to grow year on year.

Through collaboration with these industry-leading companies, MDS has helped fast-track the careers of more than 600 graduates.

From farm to fork, our members represent every part of the supply chain, including growers, manufacturers, logistics providers and retailers. This breadth gives MDS participants a unique insight into how the food industry operates and where their strengths lie.

MDS offers structured development programmes designed to launch careers in the food supply chain.

The MDS Graduate Scheme is a two-year programme made up of up to four rotational placements with different Member businesses. MDS matches Trainees to placements to provide the broadest possible experience across the industry, helping them explore their strengths and interests while developing leadership skills. Alongside their placements, Trainees work towards an industry-specific leadership qualification tailored to the food and agriculture sector.

New for 2026, the MDS School Leavers Programme offers an alternative to university for those looking to start a career in the food industry straight from school or college. This paid apprenticeship combines hands-on experience with leading businesses with the opportunity to study for a recognised supply chain qualification, giving participants practical skills and industry knowledge from day one. If you're leaving school or college and want to jump straight into a paid, full time job with training included, this programme could be the perfect first step.

This is your chance to earn from day one, gain real experience, and work towards a recognised qualification - all while discovering what kind of career suits you best.

This two year early careers programme is designed to help you build confidence, skills and experience in the food, fresh produce and agriculture industry - one of the UK's most important sectors.

• A paid 18 month supply chain apprenticeship
• Three 8 month placements with different businesses
• Hands on work, real responsibility and plenty of support along the way

This isn't a classroom only course. You'll be learning on the job, working with experienced teams, and building skills that employers value.

• Getting involved in food production, logistics or operations
• Learning how products move from farm to shelf
• Supporting quality, technical or supply chain teams
• Working with people who'll train you, support you and help you grow

You'll be trusted with real tasks and encouraged to get involved - not just watch from the sidelines.

• £21,000 salary from day one
• A recognised supply chain qualification
• Real work experience across different roles and businesses
• Support, training and mentoring throughout the programme
• The chance to discover what you're good at and what you enjoy
• No student debt - just practical experience and career skills
• Many people go on to permanent roles with their placement companies or progress into further training and leadership programmes once they finish.