How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
- specialist courses run by industry bodies
College
You could do a college course, which would teach you some of the skills and knowledge you need in this job. Relevant courses include:
- Level 2 Certificate in Pre Press for Print
- Level 3 Certificate in Understanding the Print Environment
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
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Apprenticeship
You can do a press operative intermediate or a print technician advanced apprenticeship.
These usually take between 24 and 36 months to complete as a mix of learning on the job and study.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
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Direct Application
You'll need a good general standard of education to apply directly for pre-press operator jobs. GCSEs in maths, English, art and IT may give you an advantage when looking for work. Some employers may ask for A levels or equivalent qualifications.
Other Routes
You can do specialist printing, packaging and graphic communications courses through the British Printing Industries Federation.
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Career tips
Some knowledge of desktop publishing software will be useful.
Further information
You can find out more about careers in print from the British Printing Industries Federation.