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Print Operative Apprenticeship Level 2

Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship Standard

Availability & Details

Print Operative - Level 2 Apprenticeship SAA-PROPL2/P01

Venue
South Downs Campus

Type of study
Apprenticeships

Dates
Academic Year 2026-27 ()

Examination board
Generic award - no awarding body

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Overview

The Print Operative Apprenticeship provides individuals with the knowledge and practical skills required to support the production of high-quality printed products across the print and graphics communication sector. Suitable for organisations of all sizes, from specialist print businesses and copy shops to large multinational companies, the apprenticeship covers a diverse range of industries, including commercial printing, packaging, publishing, signage, personalised products, functional printing, and secure print production.

Our expectation is that all Apprentices should already possess English and Mathematics GCSE grade D/E, 2/3 or equivalent. However, we will consider applicants without these grades subject to an initial assessment with one of the Apprenticeship Team.

Throughout the apprenticeship, individuals develop a strong understanding of print production processes and gain hands-on experience using industry-standard equipment and technologies. The programme provides a foundation in the core principles of print operations before allowing apprentices to specialise in one of three pathways: pre-press, press or post-press operations. They learn how to interpret job specifications, prepare and operate print equipment, carry out quality checks throughout the production process, and ensure finished products meet required standards and customer expectations. Working as part of a production team, apprentices develop the skills to follow technical instructions accurately, maintain production records, and contribute to efficient, safe and high-quality manufacturing processes. By understanding the complete print workflow and the importance of quality assurance, they are equipped to support the delivery of a wide variety of printed products while meeting industry standards and organisational requirements. 18 months with a typical three month assessment period, no college release day required. Great progression routes into Print Technician, Multi-Channel Marketer, Content Creation, Engineering Operations. Engineering and manufacturing and digital routes.

Apprentices are taught via a mix of classroom delivery, work-based learning/assessment and vocational “on and off the job training”.

Knowledge test, portfolio based interview and project/improvement presentation.

After completing a Level 2 Apprenticeship, you can progress onto a Level 3 Apprenticeship, gain greater responsibility in the workplace, or continue your professional development through higher-level qualifications. With the skills and experience you've gained, you'll be well placed to take the next step in your career and achieve your long-term goals.

Opportunities may exist to gain professional accreditation in your chosen field post completion of the qualification. Your Assessor will support you with information on gaining professional accreditation. As we work with Apprentices that are already employed, if you attend our day release programmes you will mix with a diverse range of businesses with Apprentices in the same sector.


The teaching and support was really great, the quality was really great, all the teachers really care about your education as well as your wellbeing, they take everything into consideration and they’re great.

Katie Whittingham, A Level student

“I owe the staff a lot and I wouldn't be where I am today without them.”

Tom Andrews, A Level Student

There are lots of people at the college, each studying a diverse range of courses, people from all different areas come to study here, it creates a sense of community, there is a huge social aspect to college life across all courses.

Lee Backhouse, BTEC student