Tesco has announced a major expansion of its Stronger Starts Apprenticeship programme with five times more places on the programme in 2025, targeting 1,500 apprenticeship opportunities for young people by 2027. Following the success of an initial cohort of 82 apprentices in 2024, Tesco is expanding this year’s intake to 450 places.
One Stop, part of the Tesco Group, is also offering 10 Stronger Starts Apprenticeships for the first time, with places available across Coventry, Leicester, Derby, Lancashire, Southampton, Bristol and Plymouth.
The Stronger Starts Apprenticeship programme does not require applicants to have any qualifications or experience when they start. Tesco pays apprentices the same as shop floor colleagues no matter their age or experience level.
Designed in partnership with Lifetime Training and the King’s Trust, 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 colleagues.
Emma Taylor, Chief People Officer at Tesco, said: “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.”
Summer, an apprentice in the 2024 Stronger Starts cohort, said: “I realised very quickly that university wasn’t for me – I needed something hands-on where I could learn and earn at the same time. The Stronger Starts Apprenticeship has given me the perfect balance of training and real-world experience. The progression opportunities available at Tesco are incredible, and I’ve been amazed by the level of support and encouragement from my colleagues. The experience has opened my eyes to a world of opportunities, and it’s my current ambition to become a shift leader. Additionally, this apprenticeship has given me the confidence to believe in myself. Today, I’m proud to work at Tesco, knowing that I have a future here.”
The scheme is open to school leavers across England. To find out more about the Tesco programme, click here. To find out more about the One Stop programme, click here.