For those who don’t know, PrintIT! is a scheme that aims to increase awareness of the print industry amongst schoolchildren by developing assignments that can be used as part of the syllabuses for GCSE and A Level Media Studies or Graphic Products and Product Design courses. The work is then eligible for the awards.

The goal of the scheme (run by Proskills, the employer-led skills body) is to build links between the industry and schools by twinning the latter with local print firms.

Of course, in a world where measurable outcomes mean everything, it’s difficult to quantify the direct impact the scheme has on ultimately attracting the kids to a career in print. However, the scheme offers a tangible feel-good factor to the students and firms involved.

The problem is that although the scheme is in its eighth year, having already worked with 120,000 kids from over 1,500 schools, its future is uncertain.

Since losing its government funding in June, Proskill!’s resources will be severely stretched. So unless PrintIT! becomes self supporting in the foreseeable future, it’s likely to die a slow and painful death.

But it’s not too late. If the industry steps up to the plate and more print firms get involved with the twinning process, PrintIT!  will become even more attractive to corporate sponsors and its future will be secured.

So come on, get involved. Surely a few hours of your time is fair swap for the resulting feel-good factor permeating your business?