Professional body the PRCA and training provider Pearson in Practice have launched a PR Higher Apprenticeship qualification.

The two organisations, alongside examination body Edexcel and sector skills organisation Skills CFA , worked closely with PR employers to develop a high-level qualification that would serve the specific needs of the sector.  It is anticipated that more than 600 PR Apprenticeships will be created by the industry over the next three years. As a higher apprenticeship, it will be equivalent to a foundation degree and so largely aimed at 19-24 year olds who seek a practical alternative to university. 

PRCA chief executive Francis Ingham commented, “It is essential that we strive for greater levels of diversity within PR, and over the past four months I have seen first-hand the support and demand for that from employers from all over England. The qualification has been designed with the highest level of expert input, and I’m confident the PR Apprenticeship Scheme has the potential to change the face of our industry for the better." 

The focus is now on recruiting employers to the new programme, with a view to the first intake of apprentices starting work in a few weeks. Companies can register their interest by visiting the website at www.prapprenticeships.com.

The project team are also hosting a launch event for employers in London on the 9 July at 6.45pm. Employers can reserve their place by visiting http://www.prca.org.uk/prapprenticeshipslondon9july