Slaughterline butchery is a specialised form of the trade and entails skills which are substantially different from those associated with other forms of a butcher’s trade. The Public Abattoir, as the only provider of services related to the slaughter for bovines, swine, equines and small ruminants in Malta, hosts specialised on-the-job training in such skills for would-be butchers on an ongoing basis. Such training forms part of the MCAST course which leads to a Malta Qualification Framework (MQF) level 3 ‘Award in Butchery’.

The MCAST course, launched in 2023, includes different study units including, those focusing on, meat quality, animal slaughter, carcass cutting, deboning processing, and advanced butchery techniques. Students will also have the opportunity to follow a 650-hour work placement, ensuring that hands-on industry experience is delivered. The training looks at both the practical skills, such as the handling of equipment as well as at the theoretical foundations underlying such practices. This includes familiarity with the animal welfare and hygiene requirements of both European and national legislation as well as the potential uses of the different carcass parts, including animal-by products.

Without prejudice, successful completion of the minimum training requirements and obtaining the MQF level 3 ‘Award in Butchery’ would render an individual eligible for any call for application for the post of slaughterline butcher either at the Malta or the Gozo Public Abattoirs.
Individuals who are interested in starting the on-the-job training should apply on the MCAST website and/or contact the Public Abattoir administration.