This qualification will provide recognition of the skills, competence and knowledge of individuals who work in/or want to work in the sign industry. There a two routes to achieving the qualification an apprenticeship 16 to 18, 19+ or experienced worker route. The qualification structure compromises of mandatory and optional units. The mode of attendance is very flexible ranging from College one day a week up to fully delivered on site at employers premises or a combination of both. The Signmaking Apprenticeship Framework has been designed to meet the requirements of the signmaking industry. This Apprenticeship deals with the design, production and installation of all sorts of signs, from those displayed on company entrances to the advertising hoardings you see around football pitches. The signmaking process involves many diverse skills, from graphic design through to electrical engineering and incorporates materials such as perspex, vinyl, plastic, metal and glass. Various methods are used to produce lettering for signs, depending on the project – for example, computer-controlled routers for cutting out moulded glass fibre lettering. Screen-printing may also be used to produce posters, while traditional sign writing could involve designing by hand and painting with special brushes and enamel paint. An apprentice could be employed as a signmaker, sign installer, quality technician, or manufacturing technician. Apprentices need to learn a range of skills including how to design signs; prepare different types of surfaces; cut out and build plastics into letters and logos; use digital technologies and install signs. The nature of the work will vary with the employer, but it could involve machining, joining, engraving, etching, hand decorating, spray-painting and screen-printing. The mode of attendance is very flexible ranging from College one day a week up to fully delivered on site at employers premises or a combination of both.

For those successfully completing a level 3 Apprenticeship, there may be opportunities to progress onto the level 4 management offer. It is important to note that this is subject to agreement with the employer.