The company, Northern Ireland’s oldest and largest digital printing company, launched its Training Academy in June 2021, taking on six apprentices.

Richard Campbell, Northside’s operations director, said the cohort had brought a great deal to the company, and had in turn been “equipped with the core skills required to enjoy sustainable employment in our industry for many years to come”.

Campbell singled out Lee Bradley, the first apprentice appointed to the scheme, who won ‘Print Media Apprentice of the Year’ at the Irish Print Awards in May.

He said: “Lee exemplifies all that is good about our Training Academy - quickly demonstrating a flare and natural ability to develop the skills required to succeed in our industry.”

19-year-old Bradley commented: “Over the last nine months I have gained a fantastic insight into the industry and developed wide-ranging skills that I know will enable me to pursue a lifelong career in digital printing.

“I have particularly enjoyed gaining knowledge and practical experience in the HP Indigo digital printing process, and hope this continues.”

Northside, which employs more than 70 staff, has now started the search for its second intake, which will take up its place in September 2022.