I wondered why the long lists of part time jobs in Tesco had disappeared over the last few months! I cannot believe that boots take part in this 'scheme' as they are right up there with there equal rights and strict non discrimination policy.
Apprentice schemes are there to learn a trade, so the time given by the company is training, so you can go on and work in that area. But ou do not need to be trained to stack shelves, and how do these companies view their customer service, as those people are not going to be motivated to give 'great' customer service. I expect they keep them behind closed doors.
The only bonus I can see, and if I was in their position would be to work there for 6 months, and then apply for a job at another supermarket for a job, that is paid. This is what I would do, turn it round to your own gain in the long run.
You need to be paying these people, it is just not right to make people work for nothing!