Apprenticeships in communications have been sweeping the nation over the past few years. Nearly all, however, have focused on providing young people with skills for careers in PR, design, digital and internal comms.

Last week, during National Apprenticeship Week, Tangerine PR announced its spearheading of a programme to address the skills shortage in social media. The first social-only apprenticeship programme will provide young people with the necessary skills for professional creative and marketing work in social media.

The apprenticeship will begin in North West England in the early summer and will feature a blend of work experience and training elements. Industry specialists in social media and professional skills trainers will provide guest lectures to apprentices.

Anna Wilson, Tangerine’s head of integrated and digital strategy, will lead the programme. She says, “Colleges and learning providers are doing a great job of delivering apprenticeships across the UK but we felt this Apprenticeship could be delivered most effectively by an employer in the industry. The course will combine industry-leading insight with practical application of technique and uses Tangerine’s investment-led approach to really empower young people to succeed in the field.”

The Government has supported young people taking on apprenticeships in lieu of university as an essential means of gaining professional skills.

An advisory panel comprised of communications agencies and in-house professionals will support the apprenticeship programme. Total People will provide the training aspect.

To read more about apprenticeships, see the following links:

http://www.communicatemagazine.co.uk/news/4512-pr-qualifications-used-to-enhance-career-prospects

http://www.communicatemagazine.co.uk/news/4490-new-partner-for-apprenticeship-scheme

http://www.communicatemagazine.co.uk/news/4429-the-best-and-brightest