M&S Jobs UK 2026: 1,000 Training Opportunities for Young People – No Degree Required

M&S Launches 1,000 Training Places Across the UK and Ireland

Marks & Spencer (M&S) has announced a new initiative called “Not Just Any Career”, offering 1,000 training opportunities for young people aged 18–24 across its stores in the UK and Ireland.

The programme is designed to help young people build valuable workplace skills, gain confidence and begin a long-term career in retail — without needing a university degree.

Six-Month Training Programme

The six-month programme will provide participants with practical, hands-on experience in M&S stores while developing leadership and management skills.

Successful participants will have the opportunity to progress into further training and potentially work towards becoming a Store Manager.

The initiative is open to both existing M&S employees and external applicants, including school leavers and other young people starting their careers.

Who Can Apply?

The programme is primarily aimed at people aged 18 to 24 who are looking to gain practical experience and build a career.

A university degree is not required. M&S says applicants should demonstrate qualities such as:

• A positive attitude
• Energy and enthusiasm
• Resilience
• Willingness to learn
• Leadership potential
• Commitment to developing a career

Tackling Youth Unemployment

The programme comes as concerns grow over the number of young people who are not in employment, education or training (NEET) across the UK.

M&S CEO Stuart Machin has spoken about how his own retail career began at the age of 16, highlighting the importance of giving young people access to opportunities that can lead to long-term careers.

The company says the new initiative will focus on practical experience, confidence building, leadership development and clear routes into retail management.

Career Progression

Participants will receive support from M&S leaders and experienced colleagues throughout the six-month programme.

Training will focus on areas including:

• Retail operations
• Leadership and management
• Customer service
• Teamwork
• Confidence building
• Practical workplace skills

Those who successfully complete the programme may have opportunities to continue developing their careers with M&S, including progression towards Store Manager roles.

1,000 Places Available

M&S plans to provide 1,000 places over the next 18 months, with opportunities available across its stores in the UK and Ireland.

Applications opened on 27 July 2026, with placements being offered on a rolling basis throughout the year.

Further information about specific locations, eligibility requirements and the application process will be released by M&S.

No Degree Needed

The initiative highlights retail as a career path where young people can start at entry level, develop their skills and progress into leadership positions through experience and training.

For young people looking for an alternative to university or graduate schemes, the programme could provide a valuable route into a long-term retail career.

M&S is offering 1,000 training opportunities, and a degree is not required.

This version keeps it professional and SEO-friendly while making the main opportunity much easier to scan.

Join Naija UK Connect

Stay updated with the latest UK visa sponsorship jobs, relocation opportunities, and career guides tailored for Nigerians through Naija UK Connect.

Join here: Naija UK Channel

Also, follow us on our social media channels for the latest updates and discussions:

Twitter: @NaijaUKConnect
Facebook: Naija UK Connect
Instagram: @naijaukconnect