We are currently in abeyance with Solas in relation to the Print Media Apprenticeship
The following information is also available as a PDF download here
What is a Print Media Craftsperson?
The work of the Print Media craftsperson is through four main production sectors – Prepress, Printing, Print Finishing, Carton Making
It involves the setting up, operating and service printing presses to print quality images on paper, board, foil and film. As part of this work they operate machine settings, adjustments, diagnose and rectify faults on equipment, materials and processes, interpret computerised printing machine management system and platemaking. They also operate multi colour presses.
Print Media craftspersons require many skills including:
• Knowledge of scientifi c principles underlying processes materials
• A broad knowledge of materials, systems and procedures
• Working with a range of instruments, machinery and specialised tools
• Producing layouts, forme sets and operating forme making equipment
• Planning and producing sample cartons,
• Setting and operating cutting machines, creasing machines and set and gluing machines
• Operate quality control and implementing quality assurance procedures
Personal Qualities and Skills
Working in the Print Industry, you must have the ability to:
• Plan and organise
• Report and communicate eff ectively
• Solve problems
• Use your own initiative
• Have an awareness of environmental issues
• Work independently and as part of a team
• Show a positive attitude
• Recognise the need for good customer relations
• Demonstrate good work practices including time keeping, tidiness, responsibility, quality awareness and safety awareness
Aspects of work
• Learning and developing new practical craft-related skills, knowledge and competence
• Working with and learning from experienced Craftspersons
• Seeing a job through from start to finish
• Comply with Health and Safety requirements
• Understanding technical specific
ations
• Being responsible for controlling or adjusting equipment
• Be able to diagnose and rectify faults
• Working with computer technology
• Operating tools or machinery
• Accuracy and attention to detail
• Being well organised and careful with practical tasks
• Keeping accurate records or reports
• Taking responsibility for own learning, including the allocation of study time
• Passing all your phase exams (theory, practicals skills demonstrations)
• Earning as you learn
How to become an Apprentice
– You must obtain employment as an apprentice in your chosen occupation.
– The employer must be approved to train apprentices.
– The employer must register you as an apprentice within two weeks of recruitment.
– In certain crafts, apprenticeship applicants are required to pass a colour vision test approved by SOLAS.