James Davorn
14 February, 2025
News

National Apprenticeship Week: McDonald’s continued support of career development has seen more than 21,000 apprentices in the UK & Ireland

For almost two decades McDonald’s has been offering award-winning apprenticeships, with over 20 different programmes offered to the brand’s employees across the UK and Ireland.

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Available for restaurants in local communities across the country, apprenticeships combine workplace training with studying. It’s a great option for those looking to earn while they learn, and with a dedicated mentor assigned at the beginning of their journey, apprentices are fully supported throughout the programme.

James Thorne, Chief People Officer at McDonald’s UK & Ireland, said: “At McDonald’s, we’re incredibly proud of our award-winning apprenticeship scheme. It opens doors for our people, fuels personal growth, and builds lasting careers. Alongside our Franchisees, we offer a wide range of apprenticeship programmes, including a unique opportunity for our managers to gain a degree while working. It’s a fantastic ‘earn while you learn’ alternative to traditional education paths. Seeing the positive impact on personal and career development for people across our business is truly inspiring. If you’re considering an apprenticeship, McDonald’s is the place to be.”  

Lewis Addison, Assistant Manager at the Yorkshire Grey McDonald’s on Westhorne Avenue, Eltham Rd, successfully completed his Degree Apprenticeship in Business Management with distinction. After finishing his A-Levels and becoming the youngest Assistant Manager at his restaurant, Lewis was uncertain whether to continue his career at McDonald's Yorkshire Grey or pursue university. It was then that his Franchisee, Taimoor Sheikh, introduced him to the McDonald’s apprenticeship scheme, and Lewis was immediately intrigued.

Lewis Addison from the McDonald’s Yorkshire Grey said: "Throughout my degree, I not only acquired professional skills but also experienced significant personal growth, learning invaluable lessons in discipline and determination that I wouldn't have gained without the apprenticeship. The programme enhanced my knowledge in sales, marketing, digital business, operations management, finance, and project management, with practical, work-based experiences contributing to the restaurant's success. 

Undertaking my end-point assessment for a chance to become a Chartered Manager under the CMI was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. My goal now is to continue developing as a leader and advancing my career with my newfound skills and knowledge. On a personal note, the degree apprenticeship provided financial freedom that a conventional degree wouldn't have, and my family is very proud of my achievements. I'm grateful for the support, friendships, and experiences I've gained along the way."

Taimoor Sheikh, who owns and operates nine McDonald’s restaurants across South-East London including Yorkshire Grey, said: “People are at the heart of the business and it is vital that everyone in my team feels encouraged and supported to follow their ambitions. Being able to offer Lewis the flexibility to complete his studies and the apprenticeship is fantastic, we are all very proud of what he has achieved. 

“I hope to see more people like Lewis not just working in our restaurants but taking advantage of the learning and development programmes McDonald’s has on offer. We're committed to providing our employees with the support they need to succeed."

In addition to this McDonald’s offer a School Leaver Degree Apprenticeship which is currently open for internal and external applications. Those selected will gain invaluable skills learnt on-the-job in this 5-year fast-track to management programme. Graduates of the programme will achieve a Level 3 Hospitality Supervisor and Level 6 Chartered Management Degree Apprenticeship. Suitable candidates are placed in local restaurants and the programme is available in England. 

For those interested in applying, please visit McDonald’s Careers Page: School Leaver Degree Apprenticeship - England | McDonald's (mchire.com)

To join McDonald’s for the opportunity to complete an apprenticeship visit https://people.mcdonalds.co.uk/