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School visits put printing on the careers map
Pupils studying for a BTEC Art and Design qualification at Barnsley Academy visited printers in the Yorkshire area as part of a pilot scheme encouraging youngsters towards a career in the print industry. A total of 24 students took part in the initiative, which saw the youngsters tour Broadsword UK in Sheffield, Intoprint and South Yorkshire Printers in Rotherham and Johnston Press in Dinnington.
The scheme, which will continue with more school visits in Yorkshire, is a joint venture between Proskill, the sector skills council representing the printing industry, PrintYorkshire, Business Link South Yorkshire, Business and Education South Yorkshire and is led by the South Yorkshire Employer Steering Group, chaired by Clive Jaques of A and R Tradeprint. If the pilot is successful, it will be rolled out across the country.
Helen Soutter of Business Link South Yorkshire helped coordinate the visit. She said: "We realised that the printing sector sometimes has a reputation for being dirty, dingy and set in its way, but that is far from the truth. The pilot scheme will help shift perceptions, illustrating the technology and possibilities within the industry. Organising visits like this will mean students can see the career opportunities available, including computing, design, pre-press, finishing, sales and general management."
"We have been impressed by the enthusiasm of the host companies and the visitors alike, but more printers are needed to broaden the area where
the pilot scheme can be delivered. Each visit will involve different printers and different schools, so anyone interested in becoming a host should contact us."
