The FESPA UK Association has teamed up with learn2print to devise a project aiming to 'inform, support and facilitate the adoption' of apprenticeships in the wide-format, industrial and specialist printing sectors. The scheme is designed to raise awareness of government-backed programmes to train the next generation of skilled workers.

As part of the FESPA UK Association initiative its members will have access to support and awards for the best performing apprentices. The programme will see printers employ an apprentice at an agreed hourly rate which will be boosted by funding from the government's ￡1.5billion set aside for the purpose. This will help manage the apprenticeship structure, deliver on- and off-the-job training and assessment, with the aim of making the apprentice 'productive in the shortest possible time'.

Those interested in learning more about the scheme can find more details on the FESPA UK Association website, or call Peter Kiddell on 01226 321202.