The Diploma in Manufacturing and Product Design has been developed by five sector skills councils to equip young people with the skills needed to pursue a career in the industry. It will be taught from a curriculum designed in partnership with manufacturers.

Available to young people aged between 14 and 19, it will be launched in September 2009 in 27 areas across England and be delivered by an approved group of schools, colleges and employers.  

Printers are encouraged to get involved by offering work experience schemes, an essential part of the course, or various associated projects.

In September this year, new groups will be invited to apply to deliver the qualification from 2010. By 2013, the diploma will be available to all young people in England.

Neil Robinson, training advisor at Proskills, said: "Having a qualification in schools that has been designed by the industry gives us an excellent opportunity. In order to get the benefits, it's vital that businesses are actively involved in its delivery.

"Employers have long spoken of the problems they face attracting young people into the sector. The Diploma offers the chance for employers to take action by engaging with young people while they are still in learning.

"Employers could help to draw up practical projects, provide Continuing Professional Development opportunities to teachers on the latest technologies and processes, or give talks or presentations."

The diploma will be available at three levels: foundation, higher and advanced. The diploma is designed to prepare young people for employment, further education or an apprenticeship.

The formal Gateway 3 application process for new consortia wishing to deliver the diploma starts in early September and closes in November 2008. To join the consortia visit www.dcsf.gov.uk/14-19/employers or contact your local Education Business Partnership for information about working with schools in your area.