Proskills UK is pleased to confirm that OFQUAL have re-accredited the Level 2 and 3 Certificate in Printing and Graphic Communications.

The Skills Funding Agency (SFA), which funds adult further education and skills training in England, turned off the funding support for several key print qualifications in England because of relatively low learner numbers.

This would have had a major impact on providers, learners and employers alike in the printing industry and Proskills argued the fact that the qualifications were specialised and vital to the printing industry and as a result the SFA reversed their decision.

“This is another example of how the current skills system is dysfunctional, and we continue to lobby for an industry driven skills system with employer led Sector Skills Councils having a more prominent role, which would avoid this kind of thing happening”  commented Tom Bowtell, General Manager of Proskills.

It was also announced that the recently expired Print Technical certificate has been reinstated following Proskills’ work with City and Guilds and OFQUAL. Without this, Printing Apprenticeship frameworks would disappear and funding would be unavailable with devastating consequences for the printing industry.

Michael Johnson from BPIF was delighted with the news saying ‘As an Industry we must be united. Proskills has come of age and completed excellent work with regard to the recent funding issues and we must get behind them.’

John Procter, Business Manager Digital Communications at Leeds City College said “We were very concerned by the possibility of losing Print Qualifications and funding so applaud Proskills efforts to get the qualifications switched back on. We had 70 learners on the technical certificate alone independent of Apprenticeships so this is welcome news. We will continue to work with and support Proskills work in the skills arena.”

 For more information please contact Richard Moore on Richard.moore@proskills.co.uk  or call 07910 247734.

The awards were to Hannah Louise Brennan, Christopher Carey Hopkinson, Katie Louise Lightfoot and Shaun Darrell Nash.

Katie comes from a family who have all passed through Leeds City College within the printing industry and includes her father and two brothers.

Once the Graduands have received their Degree from The Pro Vice-Chancellor then they then become Graduates of the University of Leeds.

 Another friend and supporter of the college, David Galton, who is the Chairman of European Flexographic Industry Association, became a Doctor of Philosophy also at the same ceremony

 Congratulations to them all.

The 2010 awards featured successes from companies including Jade Press in Leeds, Paragon Print & Packaging and the London College of Communication.

Held in conjunction with the BPIF, Unite and The Printing Charity, each winner took home up to £2,500 to help them to further progress their futures within the industry.

Unite national officer Steve Sibbald said that, by supporting young people to develop the necessary skills sets for their careers, the awards were an “investment in the industry’s future”.

“We wish this year’s winners all the very best in their chosen fields,” he added.

The five winners at the 2010 awards included Paul Jenkins, who has just graduated with a BA Hons in Graphic Media Design from the London College of Communication, Chris Jellinek, who will study for a BA Hons in Graphic Design at Lincoln University from September, and Catherine Ingham, Leeds University & Leeds City College IMPRESS Degree, who is a brand artworker for Paragon Print & Packaging. Cat is also a former student from Leeds City College on the graphics side

The other two successes were Jessy Edgar, who has won a place at Falmouth to study a BA Hons in Graphic Design beginning in September, and Craig Biggs, Leeds University & Leeds City College IMPRESS Degree, who is the digital print manager at Jade Press in Leeds.

The Print Futures Awards are open to applicants, aged between 16 and 30 years, training for a career in printing or the graphic arts. The 2011 awards will be launched next January with details available from awards secretary Terry Ulrick on 01444 831918.

Business Improvement Techniques is a work-based competency qualification. The main objective of the awards is to improve business performance, with a central theme throughout of improving business activity by continuous improvement. This enables companies and organisations to reduce their waste/costs, improve their productivity and ultimately increase their competitiveness.

“I would just like to say what a excellent course the BITs is, it gives you the tools when used correctly to make big changes that can lead on to making the company both a safer place to work and also increasing it’s profits”.

“All this is achieved by having a tutor who knows his subject and is ready to adapt and help.” - Dave Waker No2 Polestar Sheffield

“I am a Logistics Shift Manager with Polestar Sheffield and have just successfully completed the City and Guilds level 2 in BIT, done in conjunction with Leeds City College.”

“Where I found some of the parts were straightforward other areas proved more of a challenge, this is where I received invaluable help and guidance from my tutor Andy Hackett.”  “

I had not actually been in such a thought provoking / learning situation for some years.  He provided valuable information and direction to keep me on track.” – John Young – Logistics Shift Manager

“.I have found the course highly beneficial, opened up many avenues for cost
saving / productivity improvement activities on my shift. The skills that
I have also gained have proved extremely useful tools that I will
continue to use regularly”.

“The project that I instigated and followed through on my shift has been welcomed and positively commented on across all shifts, it has also vastly improved the whole process of folder tape
maintenance as a whole. A very worthy course, enjoyed it. Thanks again!!!” “Andy, thanks for the help and support given throughout the programme” – Tony Allsop – Print Shift Manager

“I found the course very interesting and learnt a great deal regarding ways of eliminating waste and how to maintain good housekeeping.”

“Despite not being able to work on the course consistently because of the shift pattern, I always had the support of the course tutor who worked around my shift pattern and made every effort to assist me.

I would be interested in doing the next level of this nvq”. – Nathan Morritt  - Logistics Shift Manager 

“I found the course very interesting and was very informative and learnt a great deal in the course despite not being able to work on the course full time due to shift pattern und commitments Andy was an excellent tutor who gave up a lot of his personal time to assist me with which was a great help.” – “I cant thank him enough”. Tim Hartle -  Polysteam Team Leader

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the support you gave throughout my BIT’s course.”

“The training sessions provided and run by yourself were very helpful clear and to the point, a good balance with some practical work involvement”

“During the course, for me personally it was a difficult time in my life to take on such a demanding course and at one point I felt I would have to sacrifice something which would have been my BIT’s, but with the motivation and support you gave I was able to see the course through to completion.”  

“Not only have I benefited from the course (gaining a City & Guilds Certificate) Polestar have also made some good cost savings / improvements in procedures & safer ways of working, as a result of the completion of our projects”. – Scott Smith – Engineering Shift Manager

If you would like more information or a visit then please contact The Print Academy at Leeds City College

Just a quick message “to thank you and your team for all of your assistance in helping me pass the C&G 5261, I found the structure of the course simple and easy to understand, and thoroughly enjoyable”.

“Also as you would of expected my knowledge of print has increased, which I’m sure will be of benefit to myself and the Guardian for many, many years to come.”

“I would also not hesitate to recommend the course to anyone who wants increase their knowledge within the printing industry. Once again thanks guys keep up the good work”

Andy Powell, Team Leader, Guardian Print Centre

IPEX was the largest English – speaking global technology event for print, publishing and media in the world. The exhibition took part in 11 halls at the NEC and Leeds City College was present in the Knowledge Centre. This was a hub at the heart of IPEX 2010 for expert advice and interactive presentations on everything from training to environmental policies to print buying.

Visitors came to the stand over the days from Canada, New Zealand, Germany, South Africa, Kenya, India, Egypt, Sweden, Malta, Israel, UAE, Saudi Arabia, as well as many UK companies.

It was also very interesting in the number of ex-students who visited the stand with many of them now in very senior positions or owners of companies, all full of praise of their experiences at Leeds!

The first candidates started the City & Guilds 5261, Level 3 Technical certificate in Lihograhic Web Offset Printing at Eurocentral back in February 2009, Knowsley followed in March 2009 and Broxbourne launched in April 2009.

This achievement would not have been possible without the great support from the Leeds City College team.

Mark Wood trainer at the Knowley site said “Steve Reid, the candidate’s on-line tutor and Darren Stallan have put a great deal of effort in to the project, ensuring that we reached our target in such a short amount of time.”

Joe Goodwin (Print 2), Sean Rogers (Print assistant) & Philip Highton (TSE) from Knowsley, took us over the momentous one hundred, threshold on Monday 10^th & 11th May, on-site at Newsprinters Knowsley

“Well done to everybody involved, combining further education with a full time job represents a hefty commitment to achieve success”

Allan Wain Operations Director North 

‘It has been a Fantastic achievement from all the Candidates and the Training Team’

Steve Reid (Leeds City College on-line tutor) 

In addition there are a number of candidates at all three sites undertaking their City & Guilds 5158 NVQ Level 3 Lithographic Web Offset Printing

Leeds City College are pleased to be partners in their training programmes

This was open to all newspaper printers, the judges were looking for consistent, pure print quality over three consecutive issues from a printer’s or publisher’s portfolio. The judges immediately remarked on the phenomenal standard across the table which necessitated an initial ‘cut’ to identify the top runners as this category had, as usual, attracted a particularly high entry. Judges commented that “editorially, readers and advertisers are so well catered for”. They did, however, emphasise the advantage held by the use of new presses and choice of superior paper quality.

Winner: Production Journal Newspaper Printer of the Year
Newsprinters, Knowsley (Financial Times, The Times, The Sunday Telegraph)

In particular, the Financial Times stood out in this winning portfolio and was commended for its “consistent quality and full broadsheet colour reproduction on large solid panels”. Judges also commented on the fantastic colour registration shown in the bold choice of advertising that “really hits you in the eye for its quality”. This is the second successive year that Knowsley has won this award. The winning entry was a portfolio of newspapers printed during live production at Knowsley including The Times, The Sunday Telegraph and The Financial Times

Pictured above is Mark Wood (trainer) and Wayne Thorpe collecting the award at The London Hilton from the sponsors Agfa, with special guest TV personality Hugh Dennis.

Commended

Newsprinters, Broxbourne (The Sunday Times, The Sun, The Daily Telegraph)

The titles in this portfolio perfectly illustrated the high standards and quality presentation of print across the whole category.

Environmental Newspaper Company of the Year

Judges considered this category one of the most demanding, as the need grows ever stronger to identify initiatives that go above and beyond the obligations of environmental legislation. Some exceptional entries stood head and shoulders above the rest demonstrating a compelling need to address issues. “It is commendable that organisations work towards improving standards, saving money as they strive to help the environment but best practice is shown by the use of the power of print to encourage others to do the same”.

Highly Commended

Newsprinters

This “well-focused plan shows serious real investment” said the judges who could see that environmental issues are “clearly a key part of the business at every level and not just management led”. Judges were impressed that Newsprinters is recognizing its responsibilities and insisting on “the highest standards of environmental protection” across all three of its UK sites.

Congratulations to everyone from Leeds City College Print Academy

Tim Ford, the Assessor from Leeds City College for the Warehouse Storage and Distribution qualification, said, “the commitment and enthusiasm shown by both Andrew Coleman and Pete Crowley is a credit to themselves, their manager (Craig Brophy) and the department. When Craig achieved his qualification in 2008, he set, as a personal example, the standard that he wanted his team to work to. Andrew and Pete have now reached that standard.

Leeds City College is committed to helping trainees in achieving their respective qualifications to the standards set.

JPI chose the prestigious and well respected Leeds City College, Print Academy to independently verify the press capability of the miracle plate technology.  John Procter, Business Manager at Leeds City College, said “JPI have visited us several times with ‘miracle’ printing plates that they exposed with lasers at Liverpool University.  The technology does indeed work and it works well.  We were pleased to be the first people in the world to be able to independently verify the press performance, recent results have been very impressive.  Last week alone we had seven different miracle plate tests in our press room and all of them worked perfectly”  Procter continued “Although the plates do not have a coating they still behave on press in the normal way.  We print them on a standard Heidelberg with normal inks and fount.  The plates do have a slight colour change where the laser has imaged them.  It may sound like unusual plate technology but it definitely works well”

Dr. Rod Potts of JPI commented “We have been busy with two recent filings for new patent applications in addition to our other patent filings – this has taken a lot of our time.  We have further testing to do at Leeds City College, Print Academy and have had contact from a number of companies that have expressed varying levels of interest and commercial support to us.  These talks continue, as does our research.  We are grateful to everyone that has been in touch with us and helped since we went public with this last year”

The new patent filings that JPI refer to are GB 1004544.1. and  GB 1004537.5.   The first patent application focuses on “substrate surfaces” the second one on platesetter technology using ultrafast lasers.

JPI is a team of former DuPont, Agfa and Kodak executives that have pioneered the use of ultra fast pulsed lasers to switch the ink-receptivity of uncoated metal surfaces

 www.miracle-plate.com

A number of courses that are suitable for the printing industry can be delivered by Leeds City College.

For a number of years these have been successfully delivered a number of clients from large multiples to small / medium sizes enterprises. These companies include : Arla Foods UK, NSPCC, West Yorkshire Police, Bradford Hospitals NHS Trust, Bewleys Hotel, Scottish & Southern Energy, Leeds University, Leeds Metropolitan University and Wagamama.

These courses regularly start throughout the year and include; 

• Health & Safety
• CIEH Level 2 Award in Heath & Safety in the Workplace – 1 Day
• CIEH Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate – 1 Day
• IOSH Managing Safely – 4 days
• NEBOSH National Certificate in Occupational Safety & Health – 15 days
• CIEH Level 2 Risk Assessment Award – 1 day
• CIEH Principles of COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) – 1 day
• CIEH Level 2 Award in Manual Handling – Principle and Practices – ½ day
• CIEH Level 2 Conflict Resolution – 1 day
• HSE Approved First Aid at Work – 4 day
• First Aid
• Appointed persons / Emergency First Aid – 1 day
• Fire Wardens – 1 day course
• Health & Safety for Cleaners & Caretakers. – ½ day. All candidates must have completed the Level 2 CIEH Health & Safety Certificate

Further information these courses and dates when they are run can be obtained from training@leedscitycollege.ac.uk  or 0113 297 6459

Alcan Packaging Cumbria, based in Salterbeck, is a business unit of Alcan Packaging – Food Europe, the European leaders in flexible packaging for the food and beverage market, operating from 31 plants in 18 countries and employing 6,500 people.

Alcan Packaging Cumbria supplies major household brands such as Walkers, Nestlé, McVities and growing companies such as AG Barrs, Stream Foods and Morning Foods.

Each year Alcan Packaging Cumbria recruits talented young Print Apprentices and in 2010 we hope to see fresh new talent applying to join our scheme. There are 18 young men and women currently training with Alcan Packaging Cumbria, learning many new skills throughout the three year, work-based, apprenticeship.

The successful recruits will learn how to run the huge printing presses, have on site technical training and will attend residential training courses at Leeds City College Print Academy throughout the three years.

Alcan Packaging Cumbria Elly Bates, HR Department

Published in Whitehaven News

Built on a ‘3D approach’ to training, this simple structure will give maximum benefit to the employers, employees and learners that use it, taking you through the 3 key stages to successful skills development:

Diagnosis – Directory – Delivery

Access to the Academy will be via a Web Portal. The Web portal will underpin all the activities of the Academy and will be the launching pad for all its products and services.

With four clear entry points – Employer; Provider; Broker and Young Academists – users of the Academy are guaranteed simple access right to the core of relevant information, products and services that will support your journey through the Academy to business or personal growth.

Proskills UK is an employer-led organisation that represents the interests of the industries that make up the process and manufacturing sector to government.

• Building Products & Refractories
• Printing
• Coatings
• Ceramics
• Extratives & Mineral Processing
• Furniture, Furnishings & Interiors
• Glass & Related Industries
• Paper
• Wood

We are your voice on all skills related issues

• We are responsible for ensuring that the current skills and funding systems delivers against the needs of our employers.
• We develop the standards and qualification that your employees undertake We research the needs and trends of your industry and articulate these into relevant training solutions.
• We ensure that the right skills platform is in place and the right framework exists to support skills investment.
• We are charged with the raising the profile of the sector to make our industries a real career choice.

In collaboration with our employers we work towards ensuring the sustainability of the sector.

The Proskills UK Group comprises of two arms to the business – the Sector Skills Council (SSC) and the National Skills Academy for Materials, Production and Supply.

The SSC focus will be on the development of standards and qualifications, researching industry needs and trends as well as strategic engagement with employers through the Industry Boards, with the Government and their agencies, as well as with other partner organizations.

The Academy focus will on coordinating the development and delivery of a sustainable, employer-driven education and skills programme to the process and manufacturing sector through an accredited training provider network. It will also be responsible for the development of a wide range of employer-endorsed products and services.

The Sector Skills Council and the National Skills Academy for Materials, Production and Supply will work together to the benefit of the sector.

The print industry in Yorkshire makes a substantial £1.35 billion contribution to the region’s economy and provides employment directly for nearly 20,000 people.

Print Yorkshire aims to ensure that the industry continues to make that strong contribution and is recognised as the ‘voice’ of print both nationally and internationally.

Through practical advice and support on training and development, grants and business networking, as well as marketing and communications, we will increase regional collaboration, better develop supply chains, increase productivity and innovation with the application of new techniques and create greater regional strength in the printing industry.

Click the following link to visit the website  http://www.printyorkshire.com/

John Procter, Business Manager – Print at Leeds City College replied to Editor Darryl Danielli and the following was published 12.02.10 in the magazine.

After a lifetime in printing I share the same concerns as you (“Training failures speed timebomb countdown” – Editorial 05.02.10). The time bomb is ticking on the aging workforce and these are workers with a wealth of skills and knowledge that will be very difficult to replace.

We do have some enlightened companies that are switched on and we at Leeds City College are privileged to work with them. Training providers must be more flexible in their approach of delivery. We have established the classrooms in the workplace and utilising the delivery of the City & Guilds Technical Certificates within a managed on line learning facility plus the NVQ programmes in house.

I agree that there is never a “one size fits all” to the training agenda but we must in many cases get back to the basic fundamentals of understanding ink, substrates, damping etc and then others fall in to place.

I do not buy in to the statements that there will be a huge pool of people available through redundancies as from past experience people do find alternative employment outside of our beloved industry. Companies do need to invest and be prepared for the upturn which will come. You can say that I am biased as a training provider but I am passionate about the industry and training.

I have been fortunate over the last 12 months to visit and discuss with fellow trainers in Europe. We do have a system in the UK that is the envy of Europe with our combination of Technical Certificates and NVQ in house assessments on the job. The thing that we do lack behind is that the training facilities in Finland, Denmark, Holland do have young people coming through as apprentices.

Ipex is the world’s biggest English-speaking event for print, publishing and media.  It’s also a source of individual help for everyone involved in print. Whether you work in a large organisation or run a family operation, Ipex is the one business event you can’t afford to miss.

As the country’s Centre of Vocational Excellence for Print, we’re dedicated to providing print courses and quality print training to companies and individuals alike.

We are committed to improving access to printing technology courses and print training for the print and packaging industry. In addition to our excellent portfolio of in-college courses, we have developed a range of award winning online learning (e-learning) packages – enabling trainees to access their print course from work and at home.

Print student Neil Fowkes, who completed his course last academic year, attended the National Vinspired Awards in London on 26 November to pick up his ‘Legend’ award for demonstrating outstanding young person’s leadership in the Yorkshire & Humber region.

He was shortlisted from approximately 90 regional winners to become one of three national finalists in his category. The awards were held by charity Vinvolved which works to promote volunteering among 16-25 yearolds and has since taken Neil on as a volunteer adviser in its own Leeds team.

During his time as Students’ Union president at Technology Campus, Neil effectively led a team of SU officers to assist in the running of recreation areas, student mentoring projects, training events for staff and students, various trips and activities. He also organised several fundraising events which raised around £2,500 in cash and other donations for a range of good causes on a local, regional and national level.

Above: Neil’s contribution to the College was also recognised at the Leeds City College awards night in November. Neil is pictured here receiving an award from Gary Hetherington, Leeds Rugby’.

iPPSA has created a new collaborative environment for the printing and graphics industry where the whole supply chain can work seamlessly in harmony. Buyers, marketers, educators, creative agencies, printers, brand owners, manufacturers and material suppliers all working together to create a more sustainable future.

The focus is on consolidating a fragmented industry around standards, training, education and the creation of ethical working practices. The future will be based on collaboration, standardisation, transparency, accountability and building stronger direct relationships between buyers and suppliers.

The organisation’s promotion will reach over 6000 printers and 2000 plus creative and advertising agencies.

Leeds City College Print Academy is included in this material and will hopefully see our inclusion as the only Education partner bear significant fruit.

 Mick Farrell, Mark McChristie and Brian Devine used the Leeds City College Print Media on Line, which is a Managed Learning Environment facility, to study towards their qualification. This is fully supported by Steve Reid their on line tutor (pictured far left with the candidates) and completed their 3 modular examinations.

 They have successfully passed their Level 3 Technical Certificate.

The National Apprenticeship Service will provide up to 5,000 Apprenticeship Grants for Employers of 16 and 17 year olds (AGE 16 and 17) with a value of £2,500 to encourage employers to take on unemployed 16-17 year olds as apprentices.

Here is a quick summary and information from the LSC about this scheme:

• The National Apprenticeship Service will provide up to 5,000 Apprenticeship Grants for Employers of 16 and 17 year olds (AGE 16 and 17) with a value of £2,500 to encourage employers to take on unemployed 16-17 year olds as apprentices.
• Its aim is to support employers to offer new and additional places in support of young people.
• The grant is available immediately.
• This initiative is a short-term (available until the end of March 2010) measure and is available now for employers who are able to offer a job opportunity to an unemployed young person aged 16 or 17.
• Employers will receive a quick response, either through the National Apprenticeship Service, or through their training provider, on whether the Apprenticeship Grant is available. All training providers who hold a contract to deliver Apprenticeships with the LSC are able to offer this incentive to employers.
• How will employers receive the grant?
  • The payments will be administered by the National Apprenticeship Service through their approved training provider network who will manage the payments and paperwork. Employers will receive the grant in two payments – £1,500 when the young person starts their Apprenticeship and a further £1,000 after 12 weeks.
  • The National Apprenticeship Service will help employers to find a suitable training provider to deliver the training programme and to recruit an apprentice.
  • Employers will be asked to sign an agreement which commits them to employing a new or additional apprentice in paid employment for the duration of the Apprenticeship training programme. Employers will pay the apprentice at least the minimum Apprenticeship wage of £95 per week, including off the job training. If the apprentice leaves early, the employer will be asked to repay a proportion of the grant.

Which young people are eligible?

• All 16 and 17 year olds who are not in employment or already on an Apprenticeship programme are eligible. This includes those who may have had a place in a college or school but have subsequently dropped out. The young person will need to have been recruited and in work before the end of March 2010.

If you would like to express your interest in taking on an apprentice then please contact John Procter at Leeds City College

http://www.apprenticeships.org.uk/Employers/AGE16and17.aspx

Six of the Technical Service Staff at the Knowsley site ‘City & Guilds 5261 Level 3 Print Technical Certificate’ candidates successfully passed their first exam (on-line).

Mark Wood, Print Trainer – North for Newsprinters commented “This is a fantastic start for the candidates; Dave Wain, Ian Kipling, Tony Barlow, Mike Clements, Phil Highton and Graeme Menzies.”

As usual, the exams took place in the ‘I-Know centre’. The exam was on Health & Safety, Employment Law & Printing Processes. All candidates passed with flying colours.

Similarly at the EuroCentral site congratulations to Tom Reid, Richard Doyle and Bob Binks who again have successfully passed their first Technical Certificate exam from the second intake.

At the Broxbourne site two more candidates John Hancock and Jamie Webb have now completed their City & Guilds Technical Certificates Level 3 studies.

This brings the total to 62 Exam passes since the programme first started in February 2009.

Steve Reid the Course tutor for the course at Leeds City College Print Academy commented, ‘They have set a high standard for themselves, as they all did exceptionally well.’

Ashley is one of  51 candidates taking this qualification at the three sites of Newsprinters – Broxbourne, Knowsley and EuroCentral in Glasgow. In addition 70 candidates are also taking their City & Guilds 5158 NVQ Level 3 in Machine Printing Web Offset

 The training is part of a five year training and assessment programme designed to give the staff accreditation and certification for present and future skills. The scheme also allows in most cases those members of staff who had commenced NVQ prior to joining Newsprinters to complete their studies and gain full accreditation

The Leeds City College Print Academy offers full on line managed training City & Guilds Technical Certificates, supported by on site visits by their own assessors for NVQ and Certification in Print Technology, while the NVQ accreditation is a worked based evidence for printing skills, the print certificate is a knowledge based accreditation covering all aspects of print.

Each of the three sites has its own centre of learning offering staff full on line training, staff can also access the Leeds City College Print Academy on line facility from home.

Trevor Foreman from Newsprinters said

Congratualtions Ashley from Leeds City College, Print Academy

At the Proskills UK Annual Conference 2009 held at the Marriott Forest of Arden Hotel, 19th November 2009 the Apprenticeship Awards Winners Announced

The UK’s brightest new talent from across the process and manufacturing sector were recognised by Proskills UK, at its 2009 Apprenticeship Awards ceremony held in the West Midlands.

Run by Proskills and its Academy, the Awards celebrated the achievements of apprentices and their employers.

Commenting on the Apprenticeship Awards, Chief Executive of Proskills UK, Terry Watts said, “There is nothing more inspiring than to see bright new talent entering our industries as a result of the apprenticeship programme.
We have again been amazed by the quality of achievement of these young apprentices who have shown what exceptional talent we have within the UK workforce and it is encouraging to see that employers are investing and committing to apprenticeship training. “

In its third year, the Proskills Apprenticeship awards celebrate a high calibre of entries from across the UK. The three award categories, Advanced Apprentice of the Year, Apprentice of the Year and Achiever of the Year, acknowledge and celebrate apprentice’s commitment to their work, development and to the outstanding contribution that they have made to their workplace.

The top honour of the evening went to Paul Harvey, a Glazier from Wirral Partnership Homes, Birkenhead, who was presented with the ‘Advanced Apprentice of the Year’.

Gary Parton, a Mechanical Engineer from Ibstock Brick, Newcastle Under Lyme was named ‘Apprentice of the Year’, while ‘Achiever of the Year’ went to Elvin Baffour from Able and Ryan in London, in recognition of his achievements during his apprenticeship in French Polishing and Furniture restoration.

Terry Watts continued “The Awards recognise and celebrate the hard work, commitment and achievement of apprentices and employers who drive business performance by using apprenticeships.”

“We are all too aware of the challenges we face to address the skills gaps in our workforce, and by implementing successful apprenticeship programmes. We can grow our own talent from within, so employees have the skills they really need, as well as ensuring that the invaluable knowledge of experienced staff is kept within the business and passed on to future generations.”

Advanced Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by The Glass Qualifications Authority
– Paul Harvey (Wirral Partnership Homes).

Highly Commended: Runner Up
Jennifer Pyne, Alcan Packaging (Apprenticeship in Print) and did her studies at Leeds City College.
Ben Morris, Pilkington (Apprenticeship in Glass and Engineering)

This year, the judges were looking for an inspirational apprentice that has made an outstanding contribution to both their workplace and their own personal development. This included demonstrating their ability to undertake new tasks and initiate new projects that will have a positive impact on the business as well as inspire others.

Apprentice of the Year sponsored by UNITE the Union – Gary Parton (Ibstock Brick)

Highly Commended:
Rhian Johns, Print & Graphics (Apprenticeship in Graphic Design)
Lucianne Hinch, DC Contracts (Apprenticeship in Making & Installing Furniture

Achiever of the Year – Elvin Baffour (Able and Ryan)

As special mark of recognition and admiration, the Achiever of the Year is awarded to the candidate who the judges felt displayed true grit and determination in working towards learning goals, and has gone the extra mile to overcome adversity to get where they are today.
Achiever of the Year 2009 was awarded to Elvin Baffour from Able and Ryan.

Other Finalists:

Tom Burgess, Pilkington (Apprenticeship in Glass Manufacturing)
Daniel Metcalfe, Auto Windscreens (Apprenticeship in Automotive Glazing)

As the government launches its new Diplomas for 14-19 year olds, PrintIT! the innovative school-based campaign aimed at introducing young people to a career in print is leading the field in school-based vocational learning by kicking off it’s fifth exciting year.

PrintIT! is a major initiative to help young people to improve their knowledge and experience of the UK printing industry. Led by Proskills, PrintIT! is a joint venture between the printing industry and leading charity The Fairtrade Foundation. It is targeted at Year 9 and Year 10 students studying GCSE Graphic Products and Product Design. It is also relevant to the new Diplomas in Creative and Media and Manufacturing and Product Design.

The fact that the core values of PrintIT! are in tune with those of the new Diploma, was recognised by Prime Minister Gordon Brown in response to this year’s PrintIT! awards. “It is this sort of imaginative, exciting and practical learning that will be a feature of the new Diplomas that are been taught for the first time this year,” commented Mr Brown.

1,000 schools and more than 85,000 students have taken part in PrintIT! so far, thanks to everyone that has helped make the project such a great success.

Between September and the middle of January 2010 students will have the opportunity to plan a print-based campaign on behalf of Fairtrade and, in the process, gain an understanding of the range of careers available in the modern, high-technology printing industry. At the centre of the project is a competition in which experts from industry and education will judge the best entries. Shortlisted students and their teachers will be invited to a prestigious awards ceremony at Ipex 2010, the international exhibition held at the National Exhibition Centre from 18-25 May 2010.

A comprehensive Teachers Pack with a complete scheme of learning is provided containing everything needed to run a successful and exciting course without the need for additional research.

Paul Evans, Project Director of PrintIT!, believes that much of PrintIT!’s ongoing success is due to the continued support it receives from sponsors and the industry as a whole. “It is a testament to the commitment of all those involved that we have been able to establish PrintIT! as a successful, growing initiative, and a forerunner in a new era of vocational learning.”

The first Pindar apprenticeship started on the 29th January 1869. This date witnessed George Arthur Pindar commence his training in the printing industry. Nearly 140 years later Pindar still recognise the need to invest in young people and training and developing its staff.

Depending on the business requirements apprenticeship opportunities can include: pre-press, print production, print finishing services, accounting, business administration, customer service and information technology.

We look for motivated people with a keen interest and commitment to the industry to whom we can offer a career and who can in return help the business maintain its strong position in the marketplace and its reputation for innovation and progression.

Entry requirements do vary, but our expectations usually include the equivalent of 5 GCSEs grade C or above. In addition you will be expected to complete a range of pre-selection assessment tests and during interview demonstrate your dedication to the apprentice programme.

Training for successful applicants varies according to your chosen career path but will normally combine college attendance and work experience training linked to NVQ qualifications.

To deliver the training, we work in conjunction with a number of further education colleges. For skilled craft people in prepress, print production and print finishing services, Pindar works closely with Leeds City College.

If you would like to find out more about our apprenticeship programme please contact Ray Beswick – 01723 581581 or Marie Collis – 01772 620999. http://www.pindar.com/

ECVET aims for better comparability and compatibility between different national VET and qualification systems. The system, which should be implemented by Member States by 2012, is a voluntary framework to describe qualifications in terms of units of learning outcomes

This is the third workshop that has taken place and is funded under Leonardo. The European Credit system for Vocational Education and Training (ECVET) will give people greater control over their individual learning experiences and make it more attractive to move between different countries and different learning environments. The EU Member States and the Commission are developing a system to facilitate the recognition of knowledge, skills and competences gained by individuals in different learning environments or through periods of vocational education and training abroad. It is hoped that a print employer in one European Country should be able to cross reference the qualifications in another member state.

Partnerships and networks are being developed at European, national, regional, local and sector level, to ensure the quality and overall coherence of ECVET

ECVET – the European Credit system for Vocational Education and Training: In ECVET, learning outcomes acquired by an individual in different contexts, whether abroad or under another system, can be easily transferred to the individual’s home context for accumulation and the achievement of a qualification.

We currently offer the following courses online:

• City & Guilds 5261 in Lithographic Machine Printing  Level 2
• City & Guilds 5261 in Lithographic Machine Printing  Sheet Fed Level 3
• City & Guilds 5261 in Lithographic Machine Printing Web Level 3
• City & Guilds 5261 in Flexographic Machine Printing Level 3
• City & Guilds 5261 in Gravure Machine Printing Level 3
• City & Guilds 5261 in Carton Manufacture Level 3
• City & Guilds 5261 in Print Finishing Level 2
• City & Guilds 5261 in Print Finishing Level 3
• City & Guilds 5261 in Pre Press Level 2
• City & Guilds 5261 in Pre Press Level 3

In addition we have the ABC Award Understanding Print Technology Processes

The course provides a broad foundation of technical knowledge of all the main printing processes. It is suitable for anyone engaged in, or entering any section of the printing industry either on the office or production sides. The course is also suitable for print buyers who wish to further their knowledge of the printing industry.

There are no specific entry requirements for this course.

Course content

• Conventional printing processes
• Electronic / digital processes
• Print finishing, binding and warehousing
• Substrates
• Printing processes and product comparisons
• Structure and organisation of the printing industry
• Changing role of pre-press
• Typography
• Handling of text, images and graphics
• Methods of working and impositions
• Proofing and print specifications
• Output media and preparation of printing surfaces
• Computer to plate, and beyond

 This course is available with online study with tutor support.

Neil Fowkes and Jim Naughton were among 65 students whose achievements were recognised at the First Annual Leeds City College Awards Ceremony, which was held at Leeds City Museum on Wednesday 11th November. Each student won a framed certificate and Borders voucher, with cash prizes of £100 and £250 going to the Highly Commended and Student of the Year categories.

Neil Fowkes won the Print Student of the Year award and Jim Naughton from Polestar Sheffield was named EVOLVE Print Student of the Year.

The ceremony was also enjoyed by friends, family, staff and industry figureheads, and speeches were made by Principal Peter Roberts, Chair of Governors Neil McLean and Gary Hetherington, Chief Executive of Leeds Carnegie RUFC and Leeds Rugby Ltd.

The speakers all paid tribute to the achievements of the winners, and Gary relayed his experiences in the Rugby profession.

He also drew comparison between the importance of learning new skills and personal development, not only on the pitch but in education and the workplace.

Completion marks an end to this phase of their trainee printer program

Over the last 3 years Leeds City College has delivered their award winning City & Guilds 5261 Level 3 Technical Certificate in Web Offset Printing on line to a number of employees.

When Dave Kavenagh and Colm Higgins from the final intake completed their final examination on 28th October it marked an end to this phase of their trainee printer programme. This program was delivered using a “Managed Learning Environment” that both supports the candidates and reports to the company on progress of their employees.

Colm Fulham said:

“On behalf of The Irish Times I would like to thank Leeds City College and their staff for the support and assistance they have shown to our trainees over the past number of years.”

“In particular a word of thanks to Paul Mann the tutor, who stuck to the schedules, monitored progress efficiently and positively encouraged our guys to achieve.”

“The Leeds City College program is top notch.”

Pictured is the old press before they moved to their new purpose built facilities

Proskills are pleased to announce the 9 finalists for the Proskills Apprenticeship Awards.

Proskills Apprenticeship Awards celebrate the star performers in the process and manufacturing sector. This is a UK-wide opportunity for employers to put forward their top apprentices to showcase their achievements and the contribution and difference they have made to their businesses.

There are three categories:

• Apprentice of the Year
• Advanced Apprentice of the Year
• Achiever of the Year

All apprentices working in the Building Products, Coatings, Extractive and Mineral Processing, Furniture, Furnishings & Interiors, Glass and Glazing, Glazed Ceramics, Paper and Print were eligible for entry to the awards.

The Apprenticeship Awards Dinner will be a celebration of the winners in recognition of their outstanding performance and valuable contribution to the companies they work for.

Trophies and prizes will be presented to the winners and runner-ups for each of the named categories.

The nine finalists for this year are :-

1. Elvin Balfour – Able & Ryan
2. Tom Burgess – Pilkington
3. Paul Harvey – Wirral Partnership Homes
4. Lucianna Hinch – DC Contracts
5. Rhian Johns – Print & Graphics
6. Daniel Metcalf – Auto Windscreens
7. Ben Morris – Pilkington
8. Gary Parton – Ibstock Brick Ltd
9. Jennifer Pyne – Alcan Packaging

Jennifer Pyne from Alcan Packaging in Whitehaven is undertaking the City & Guilds 5261 Technical Certificate at Leeds City College as part of her apprenticeship.

We wish Jennifer the best of luck at the Proskills Apprenticeship Awards Ceremony and Gala Dinner on 19th November 2009 at Marriott Forest of Arden Hotel

With world class resources such as micro level analysis of print and ink and substrate assessment, the Centre can provide your business with specialist support, due to its wealth of experience and expertise. The collaborative approach of the Digital Print CIC will prove invaluable to developing the most efficient and cost effective print solutions, which will save you time and money.

Click the following link to visit the Digital Print CIC website.

Print Yorkshire

We aim to:

Overall.

• Achieve nationaland international recognition.
• Create business opportunities forbuyers and sellers of print.

Company specific.

• Support training and development.
• Seek out funding.
• Enhance networking opportunities.
• Share best practice.
• Promote excellence

Click the following link to visit the website  http://www.printyorkshire.com/

Email: john.procter@leedscitycollege.ac.uk

Phone Number: 0044 (0) 113 3861830

Mobile Number: 0044 (0) 7711 659 400

Leeds City College – Technology Campus

Cookridge Street

Leeds, 

West Yorkshire,

LS2 8BL

As the country’s Centre of Vocational Excellence for Print, we’re dedicated to providing print courses and quality print training to companies and individuals alike.

We are committed to improving access to printing technology courses and print training for the print and packaging industry. In addition to our excellent portfolio of in-college courses, we have developed a range of award winning online learning (e-learning) packages – enabling trainees to access their print course from work and at home.

CoVE

The Print Academy is part of the college’s Centre of Vocational Excellence in Print Media.

Centres of Vocational Excellence (CoVEs) are areas of specialist provision characterised by close links with employers, business partners and other educational establishments. It is a government initiative aimed at addressing skills shortages through meeting employer needs by focusing on developing appropriately skilled and qualified personnel.

Being awarded this status reflects the fact that Leeds City College is one of best colleges in the country for Print Media training and recognises the expertise, skills and the facilities that are on offer at the college.

The database contains both employers looking for prospective Print Apprentices and prospective Print Apprentices looking for employment in the print industry. Each year we also have a number of quality students that have completed either a one year First Diploma in Print or a two year National Diploma in Print and they have an excellent portfolio of work produced during their courses.

Leeds City College Work Based Unit provides print companies with full support and will work with you to meet your needs and those of your employer making sure the right print course is selected.

Print Apprenticeships are available at two levels:

Apprenticeship
An Apprenticeship is a level 2 course, which means that as a trainee you will be working towards a National Vocational Qualification at Level 2 (Print NVQ) in your chosen specialist area. A Print Apprenticeship is a one or two year course. Entry requirements for this do vary but we will discuss with you. We will give your employee a Basic Skills Assessment, which will ensure your employee is enrolled at the right academic and Apprenticeship level.

Trainees who have successfully completed an Apprenticeship can apply to progress on to an Advanced Apprenticeship.

Advanced Apprenticeship (AA)
The Print Advanced Apprenticeship is a Level 3 course, which means that as a trainee you will be working towards a National Vocational Qualification at Level 3 (Print NVQ) in your chosen specialist area. The course is two to four years in duration. There is an entry requirement but this does vary according to vocational area. In addition, we will give your employee a Basic Skills Assessment, which will ensure your employee is enrolled at the right academic and Apprenticeship level.

The graphics and printing industries are very diverse and exciting with a wide range of career routes, which include:

• Pre-Press – Design, Mac Operator, Electronic Publishing, Preparation prior to print
• Litho Printing – print for high quality brochures, posters and leaflets
• Flexographic Printing – print for stickers, labels, packaging and food packaging
• Gravure Printing – Magazines, supplements, catalogues packaging
• Screen Printing – print for point-of-sale, retail, T-shirts, fabrics, furnishings and wallpapers
• Print Finishing – finishing the printed product, liaison with pre-press and print, binding, collating, wire stitching, guillotine trimming, foil blocking, packaging for the customer
• Carton Manufacture – package design and packaging products including CAD
• Print Administration – costing, estimating, production control

National Vocational Qualification (Print NVQ) in chosen specialisms
The Print NVQ is fundamentally a work-based qualification, achieved by putting together a portfolio of evidence to prove competence of various tasks laid down by the national standards. This assessment will be carried out in the workplace and Leeds City College provides individual support and guidance on a weekly basis and on-site assessment at appropriate stages throughout training. Depending on which level of course you are taking, you will achieve Print NVQ level 2 or 3.

City & Guilds qualification to underpin your trainees knowledge
This is the theory that is taught when they attend college on either days, mini blocks or by the award winning Print Media On Line. It goes hand-in-hand with the Print NVQ. It is a modular qualification and exams / assessments are set at the end of each module. A practical session is incorporated to reinforce theory taught for those people attending day release or mini blocks.

Key Skills
In Application of number (Numeracy), Communications and Information Technology (IT). Plus, additional work-based skills such as working with others and improving own learning performance are included. These are achieved by exams and/or by gathering evidence for their NVQ portfolio. Each of the above subjects may be timetabled or be fully integrated into the programme during the day.

The programme teaches students through part-time, guided distance learning, thereby minimising workplace disruption through time away from work. IMPRESS is the only part-time, flexibly delivered degree course for professionals working in, or wishing to enter, the print-related industries.

We are able to offer flexible entry according to your academic background or industrial experience. We are also able to offer ‘drop-off’ points at regular intervals, recognising that circumstances change regularly in industry.

For further information:

Website: http://www.leeds.ac.uk/impress/

Telephone: Carol Beanland on 0113 343 2765

Email: impress@leeds.ac.uk