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Partnership inspires print students
Print companies are urged to invest in the future of the sector by working with schools and colleges to deliver a new qualification.
The Diploma in Manufacturing and Product Design will equip young people with the skills and knowledge to pursue a career in industry using a curriculum designed in partnership with manufacturers. Available to students between 14 and 19, it will launch in 2009 in 27 areas across England, delivered by a consortia of schools, colleges and employers. This year, new consortia are invited to deliver the qualification, which will be available to all young people in England by 2013.
This partnership approach allows students to spend time in specialist colleges with high-spec manufacturing facilities and with manufacturing companies. A minimum of ten days work experience is an essential part of the diploma, however not every employer within a consortium will be expected to offer work placements.
Neil Robinson from Proskills, the sector skills council for the printing industry, said; "Manufacturers can get involved in all sorts of ways, regardless of their size. They can help draw up practical projects, provide continuing professional development opportunities for teachers on technologies and processes, or give talks or presentations about their business to students.
"The Diploma in Manufacturing and Product Design offers the chance for employers to take action, by engaging directly with young people while they are still in learning. It is a massive opportunity, and one which the print industry cannot afford to let pass by."
The application process for new consortia opened in September and will close on 26 November 2008.
