It was revealed this month that the industry-wide education scheme, which introduces young people to a potential career in print, has engaged with 100,000 students since its launch in 2005.

Paul Evans, project director of PrintIT! said: "This figure is a landmark for PrintIT! and a milestone we are delighted to have achieved with the help of all our supporters in the industry.

"However, its significance extends further than just PrintIT! itself.  It is a triumph for UK print plc, as much of PrintIT!’s success can be attributed to the support, collaboration and funding of the print industry as a whole."

In the past year, PrintIT! has reached a new audience of 13-16 year olds with the introduction of its "Green" supermarket theme, which is focused on the print industry's commitment to sustainability and the environment.

This year's PrintIT! competition has challenged students to create a print-based campaign to promote Fairtrade products in supermarkets. Judging will be divided into two stages, with finalist workbooks reviewed by some of the industry's leading print and design experts.

All finalists will be invited to attend IPEX 2010 on 22 May at the NEC in Birmingham, where they will be given guided tours of the exhibition before being invited to attend the annual PrintIT! Awards ceremony.