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FESPA UK association has launched its Next Gen Supported Learning project, which provides work placements and education for young professionals entering the signage and graphics industries
FESPA UK has announced the launch of its Next Gen Supported Learning project, the next stage of its Next Generation project for young professionals.
The trade association’s new initiative is designed to connect young people with career opportunities in the print, signage, and graphics industries.
The fully funded programme offers a six-week work placement at a relevant company, followed by a one-year internship. The initiative is designed to be flexible, combining two to three days per week of workplace experience with two days per week of college learning.
Goals of the initiative include bridging the skills gap, supporting employers in filling key job roles, and creating meaningful opportunities for young people with disabilities to gain work experience and progress into employment.
Each intern will be supported by a dedicated job coach, who will provide guidance to the employers as the learners settle into their new role. The colleges taking part in the scheme will provide additional support including staff awareness training.
FESPA UK aims for interns to secure permanent positions at their respective companies at the end of the scheme. If either the intern or the employer decides not to proceed with employment, the intern will continue their college education, and the employer will have the opportunity to hire another young person taking part in the initiative.
Employers across England and Wales have been encouraged to contact FESPA UK directly to register their interest in taking part in the initiative. All participants in the scheme will be awarded a FESPA UK recognition certificate at the conclusion of the internship.
FESPA UK has also created an interactive learner’s job page, which will allow employers to search for learners in their area and learn more about the young people who would like to be part of the project.
FESPA association members have exclusive access to this webpage as part of their membership, but the association has encouraged non-members to reach out as well.
Speaking of the new scheme, Molly Jackson, FESPA UK’s marketing and content executive and head of the Next Generation project, says: “This initiative is a real game changer for our industry. It’s amazing to see a real push for supported learning, something that should be a common standard.
“These learners bring fresh ideas, determination, and invaluable skills that will genuinely enhance businesses. It was time for change, and I hope more companies recognise the potential and impact of giving these young people the opportunities they deserve.”
20-year-old Jackson, who entered the industry less than two years ago as part of an apprenticeship, has helped to host a range of events, talks, and committees as part of the Next Gen Project.
The association recently closed its applications for the Next Gen Committee 2025, which brings together young professionals in the 18-30 age bracket with the aim of fostering collaboration and inspiring change within the industry.
Jon Hutton, FESPA UK’s business development executive, adds: “It’s a memorable day when we had that lightbulb moment and realised we’re in the incredible position to contribute in transforming the lives of such wonderful individuals.
“To help develop the project and our understanding, we’ve been meeting with educators, learners, and involved business owners across the country, which has given us vital and inspirational insights into a project that we are so proud to present and lead to our industry.’’
