Senior staff from The Printing Charity and other businesses in print-related industries met at Hackney Community College recently to take part in a discussion led by HRH The Duke of York on the benefits of hiring apprentices.
The Duke is committed to encouraging organisations of all kinds to consider supporting, or increasing their support for, apprenticeships. His Royal Highness said: “In an industry that is rapidly changing in technology, the print industry has changed beyond all recognition but still needs skills.”
Employers and their apprentices who already train at Hackney Community College outlined the structure of apprenticeship pathways in the printing industry. Those represented at the event included Proskills UK, BPIF, St Bride Foundation, and various suppliers etc.
The Printing Charity actively encourages apprenticeships. Chief executive, Stephen Gilbert, said: “We have a long history of providing financial and practical help to individuals associated with the printing trade. It is vitally important that the industry looks forward to its future, and we firmly believe that encouraging and supporting apprenticeships is key to the success of the UK printing industry. We are very grateful to have the support of His Royal Highness in this venture.”