Local Apprentice Butcher Wins National Awards

From Apprenticeship to National Recognition in Butchery

Nikita Somma, a 24-year-old apprentice butcher, has recently gained national recognition for her skills and dedication in the butchery trade. Starting her career with an in-house apprenticeship, Nikita progressed to a certified Level 2 apprenticeship at Leeds City College, where she honed her technical abilities and achieved notable success.

Apprenticeship Journey and Skills Development

Nikita began her butchery career with a previous employer before enrolling in the Level 2 apprenticeship programme at Leeds City College to obtain a formal qualification and further develop her skills. During her apprenticeship, she focused on the lamb department, where she was responsible for fulfilling customer orders and preparing stock for larger clients. Her training included essential technical skills such as knife handling, health and safety, and food safety.

Her manager, Kyle Linley, highlighted her commitment and quality of work, stating that Nikita demonstrated exceptional dedication, excellent attendance, and a passion for butchery that often exceeded the requirements of the programme.

Achievements and Awards

• Nikita completed her 21-month apprenticeship in just 15 months, earning several Pass with Excellence grades despite having no prior experience in the trade.
• In 2025, she competed in the Battle of the Butchers at The Dalziel Apprentice Butcher Competition, where she received the Golden Cleaver Award.
• She also won awards for Best Innovative Lamb Product and Best Innovative Beef Product at the same competition.
• Most recently, Nikita was named Leeds City College’s Learner of the Year at the Luminate Apprenticeship Awards.

Impact and Future Plans

The apprenticeship has significantly boosted Nikita’s confidence and career prospects. She credits learning alongside peers and receiving practical guidance for helping her complete the programme ahead of schedule. Looking ahead, Nikita has applied to join Team GB Butchery with the aim of competing at the World Butchers Challenge in Australia in 2028.

Additionally, she plans to create an educational platform to support women in the butchery industry, focusing on equal opportunities and mentorship for future generations.

Views on Apprenticeships

Nikita emphasises the value of apprenticeships in providing practical learning opportunities that may not be available within all workplaces. She appreciates the combination of tutor support, peer learning, and hands-on experience as key to her development.

Her journey illustrates the role apprenticeships can play in nurturing skilled professionals and highlights the potential for individuals to achieve recognition and career advancement through such programmes.