The Making of a Butcher: Q&A with Rhys Farrer
At Cranstons, we’re incredibly proud of our team, and this month we’re celebrating a fantastic achievement by one of our rising stars. Rhys Farrar, based at our Brampton Food Hall, has successfully completed his Level 2 Butchery Apprenticeship after months of hard work, learning, and dedication. Rhys joined the business in October 2023 and has made a big impression with his positive attitude and passion for the craft.
We caught up with Rhys to hear about his experience, what he’s learned, and what comes next in his Cranstons journey.
Q: When did you start your apprenticeship and how did you find out about it?
A: I started in October 2023, I emailed the company directly and asked if there was anything going, and the rest is history!
Q: How did you find the apprenticeship experience?
A: I really enjoyed it. One of my favourite parts was learning all the different techniques from different butchers and figuring out what worked best for me. It was hands-on, interesting, and always something new to learn.
Q: Why did you choose butchery?
A: I’ve been a farmer most of my life, so I’ve always seen livestock being reared for butchery. I wanted to understand what happens next—what goes on beyond the farm gate.
Q: Who was your mentor during your apprenticeship?
A: My first mentor was Nathan—he helped me get started and guided me through the basics. Later on, Dave Dobson had a big impact too. He really helped me improve and showed me how to do things better.
Q: What’s next for you?
A: I’m looking forward to progressing within the business—maybe stepping into a supervisory role one day. There’s a lot of opportunity here.
Q: Would you recommend the apprenticeship to other young people?
A: Definitely. You’re learning a skill and earning money at the same time. You’re not stuck behind a desk like you might be in school or college—you’re out there doing the job, getting real experience.
Q: What’s your favourite product to prepare?
A: I’d have to say a tomahawk steak—nothing beats it.
Q: Why did you choose to train at Cranstons?
A: Cranstons is a big name in butchery. It has a great reputation, and I felt like it was the right place for me to learn and really progress.
Q: Was there anyone in particular who inspired you?
A: A few people, but especially Dave Dobson. He helped me out a lot and pushed me to keep improving.
Q: What part of the apprenticeship did you enjoy the most?
A: I really liked the journey of going from just getting the job done to doing it exceptionally well. It’s satisfying to perfect the craft.
Q: What’s been your proudest moment so far?
A: Probably when I did the apprenticeship mock exams and saw my results. I’d worked hard, and the high marks made it feel really worth it.
Q: What have you learned about yourself during the apprenticeship?
A: That when I put my mind to something, I can achieve it. Some parts of the course were tough or frustrating, but I stuck with it and proved to myself I could get it done.
Q: Anything else you’d like to add?
A: Just that apprenticeships are a great way to get a head start in life. You’re learning, you’re earning, and you’re setting yourself up with a proper skill for the future.
If you’re visiting our Brampton Food Hall, be sure to say a big congratulations to Rhys! We’re so proud of his achievement and can’t wait to see where his Cranstons career takes him next.