The United Kingdom is home to a vibrant food industry, with many job opportunities for those with the right skills and experience. One area of the industry that is particularly in demand is butchery, which involves the preparation and sale of meat products. Filipinos, with their strong work ethic and attention to detail, are well-suited to careers in this field.
In this article, we will explore how Filipinos can get a job as a butcher in the UK, including the qualifications and training needed, the job market and opportunities available, and tips for success in this challenging but rewarding career. Whether you’re a recent arrival in the UK or a Filipino looking for a new challenge, read on to discover how you can carve out a successful career in the British food industry.
Disclaimer: The information posted here is based on the personal experiences shared by the OFW in the video below. Please let this post serve as a guide only. If you have specific questions, you may ask the OFW by commenting on their video on their accounts.
The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Butcher in the UK as a Filipino
The information presented in this video comes from a YouTube video from an OFW YouTuber whose channel is called Kwentong Butcher UK. In this video, the vlogger talks about four major steps that one must take in order to become a butcher in the UK, or in any other country for that matter. If you want to watch the video, then click on the link below:
If you’re interested in becoming a butcher in the UK, there are a few key things you’ll need to do.
- Firstly, it’s recommended that you train in butchery through the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in the Philippines. This will give you the foundational knowledge and skills you’ll need to excel in the role.
- Additionally, it’s a good idea to apply for work experience in the Philippines, as this will help you gain practical experience in the field.
- You’ll also need to obtain a passport to be eligible to travel to the UK
- You also need to take the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your proficiency in English.
- Finally, you can start applying for butchery jobs in the UK through agencies that specialize in placing workers in this field. By taking these steps, you’ll be well on your way to launching a successful career as a butcher in the UK.
Get training in TESDA
If you’re looking to start a career in butchery or make a transition to this field, the first step is to undergo training through the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). TESDA offers a variety of courses related to butchery, including
- NC2 Slaughtering Operations
- Meat cutting courses
- Butchering courses.
To find the nearest TESDA training center in your area, simply search on Google or visit the TESDA website. While having a certificate in NC2 Slaughtering Operations is ideal, butchering and meat cutting courses can also be beneficial as they are closely related to this field. Many agencies and companies in the UK require applicants to have TESDA certification, so it’s essential to complete the relevant course.
By doing so, you’ll gain the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the field of butchery and improve your chances of landing a job with a reputable employer.
So, if you’re serious about pursuing a career in butchery, consider enrolling in a TESDA course and taking the first step towards your goal.
Step 2. Apply in the Philippines. Get some work experience.
When it comes to finding a job as a butcher, there are several places where you can apply, such as the following:
- Meat shops
- Markets
- Slaughterhouses
- Supermarkets.
To gain valuable work experience, it’s a good idea to start with smaller meat shops or wet markets, as these can provide you with foundational knowledge and practical skills. If you’re looking to apply for jobs in the UK, this kind of experience is generally acceptable, and you can even apply through agencies that specialize in placing workers in this field.
However, if your goal is to work in countries like Australia, New Zealand, or Canada, it’s recommended that you gain experience in larger meat shops or supermarkets, as this is the preferred experience by many recruitment agencies. In fact, these agencies often require applicants to have a certain level of experience in big meat shops or supermarkets, as well as proof of SSS contributions.
To increase your chances of landing a job, it’s essential to double-check the requirements of the recruitment agency or company you’re applying to. For instance, FMW human resource may have different requirements than other companies, so it’s always a good idea to check their website or reach out to their representatives for clarification.
Ultimately, the more experience you have, the better your chances of securing a job in the field of butchery. Whether you’re starting out in a small meat shop or working your way up to a larger supermarket, it’s important to take the time to gain practical skills and knowledge in this field. With dedication and hard work, you can achieve your goal of becoming a successful butcher and building a rewarding career in this industry.
Get a Passport
If you’re planning to work as a butcher in the UK, one of the most important things you need is a valid passport. If you already have a passport, it’s crucial to ensure that it’s not nearing its expiration date. If your passport is due to expire soon, you’ll need to renew it before you can apply for a job overseas.
It’s worth noting that passports issued by the Philippine government now have a validity period of 10 years, which means you won’t have to renew your passport as often as before. However, it’s still essential to keep an eye on the expiration date and plan ahead to avoid any potential delays or complications.
When renewing your passport, it’s important to check the requirements and procedures set by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). As of the moment, scheduling an appointment at the DFA can be challenging due to high demand. It’s recommended to check the DFA website regularly for updates and available slots.
Step 4. Take the IELTS
Here are some facts about taking the IELTS according to the vlogger:
- It’s best to take it after you’ve obtained all the other requirements mentioned above.
- The IELTS has a validity period of 2 years
- In the Philippines, IELTS is commonly taken by individuals who wish to study, work, or migrate to English-speaking countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
- The test is divided into four sections: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. The listening and reading sections are multiple-choice, while the writing and speaking sections involve producing written and spoken responses.
- The maximum score for each section is 9.0, and the overall band score is the average of the four sections, rounded to the nearest half band.
When it comes to taking the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), timing is everything. According to the vlogger, the best time to take the IELTS is when you have already obtained the necessary requirements, such as the TESDA NC2 certificate, work experience, and a valid passport.
The TESDA NC2 certificate is important because it serves as proof that you have undergone the necessary training and have the skills required to work as a butcher. Work experience, on the other hand, helps you gain practical knowledge and exposure to different aspects of the industry. Having a valid passport is also essential because you need it to travel and work abroad.
It’s important to note that the IELTS has a validity period of two years. This means that if you take the test too early and don’t have the other requirements yet, you may end up wasting your IELTS score because it will expire before you can use it to apply for a job overseas.
So, to maximize your chances of getting hired as a butcher in the UK, it’s advisable to take the IELTS when you already have the TESDA NC2 certificate, enough work experience, and a valid passport. By doing so, you can ensure that your IELTS score is still valid when you finally apply for a job overseas.
Step 5. Apply through an agency
When it comes to applying for a butchering job through an agency, now is a great time to take advantage of the many opportunities available, not just in the UK but also in the following countries:
- Canada
- Australia
- USA, particularly in Minnesota
- and more
It may seem daunting to those who are just starting out, as gaining work experience can take months or even years. However, the hiring of butchers is ongoing and shows no signs of slowing down. In fact, the vlogger’s company began hiring Filipino butchers in October 2021, and he believes that the demand will continue until at least 2024. So, if you’re looking to pursue a career as a butcher in the UK or other countries, now is the perfect time to take the necessary steps and make your dream a reality.
Facts about the butchering job in the UK
Working as a butcher in the UK can be an exciting career path for Filipinos who are looking for job opportunities abroad. With the increasing demand for butchers in the country, it’s not surprising that many Filipinos are considering this profession. However, before diving into this field, it’s important to know some essential facts about working as a butcher in the UK.
- The salary is competitive – The salary of a butcher in the UK varies depending on the employer and location. However, the average salary for a butcher in the UK is around £22,000 per year. With a strong work ethic and dedication to the craft, it’s possible to earn more and even advance to higher positions in the industry.
- The demand for butchers is high – The UK has a high demand for butchers, especially as more consumers seek out locally sourced meat. This means that there are plenty of opportunities for skilled butchers to find work in the UK.
- Butchers in the UK must follow strict regulations – In order to ensure food safety and prevent the spread of diseases like BSE (commonly known as mad cow disease), butchers in the UK must follow strict regulations when it comes to slaughtering animals and handling meat. As a result, it’s important for Filipino butchers to familiarize themselves with these regulations and stay up-to-date with any changes.
- Butchers in the UK may need to work early hours – Many butchers in the UK start work early in the morning, as they need to prepare the meat for the day ahead. This means that if you’re planning on working as a butcher in the UK, you may need to be prepared to start work early in the day.
- Butchers in the UK can earn a good salary – While the exact salary for a butcher in the UK can vary depending on a number of factors (such as experience and location), it’s generally considered to be a well-paying job. According to the National Careers Service, butchers in the UK can earn between £16,000 and £25,000 per year, with experienced butchers potentially earning more. This can be a great opportunity for Filipino butchers looking to earn a good living while gaining valuable work experience in the UK.
Often, when we think of the UK, we think of job opportunities for Filipino Nurses. However, this article shows that butchers also have a chance to have a fulfilling career in this country. However, it requires some preparation and effort before embarking on this journey. By following the steps outlined in this article, including obtaining a TESDA NC2 certificate, gaining relevant work experience, obtaining a passport, taking the IELTS, and applying through agencies, Filipinos can increase their chances of landing a job as a butcher in the UK. It is important to keep in mind the challenges and adjustments that come with living and working in a foreign country, but with dedication, perseverance, and a positive attitude, Filipinos can thrive in their new career and achieve their dreams.