You could do a college course, which would teach you some of the skills and knowledge you need in this job. Relevant courses include:

• Level 2 Certificate in Pre Press for Print
• Level 3 Certificate in Understanding the Print Environment

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course

You can do a press operative intermediate or a print technician advanced apprenticeship.

These usually take between 24 and 36 months to complete as a mix of learning on the job and study.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

You'll need a good general standard of education to apply directly for pre-press operator jobs. GCSEs in maths, English, art and IT may give you an advantage when looking for work. Some employers may ask for A levels or equivalent qualifications.

You can do specialist printing, packaging and graphic communications courses through the British Printing Industries Federation.

You'll need:

• design skills and knowledge
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
• the ability to work well with others
• to be flexible and open to change
• the ability to use your initiative
• persistence and determination
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

In your day-to-day tasks you could:

• use desktop publishing and graphics software to create artwork
• scan and retouch images
• check a whole document for accuracy
• prepare artwork for transfer to film
• transfer the final image from film onto printing plates

You could work in a creative studio or in an office.

You may need to wear protective clothing.