by Enya Holland
The Publishing Excellence Programme, developed by a handful of publishers to offer comprehensive work experience for those seeking a career in publishing or media, is currently considering new applicants. The Programme offers the opportunity to gain valuable practical skills as well as an insight into working within the industry from successful publishers across the country. Publishers currently offering the Programme include Arkbound (Bristol), Valiant (Birmingham), UpScribe (Newcastle), The Write Factor (North Devon) and Mother’s Milk Books (Nottingham).
The Programme involves one-to-one mentorship and is structured in modules covering the essential skills needed to pursue a career in the sector. Candidates can choose from an eight-week programme that focuses on several aspects of book publishing or a twelve-week programme that covers books and magazines and the basics of journalism. Both programmes have been designed to allow the candidate to develop a first-hand understanding of the publishing process from start to finish. Modules focus on core skills such as proofreading and editing while building knowledge of processes from formatting manuscripts to managing author-publisher relationships.
Assessment of the programme is carried out throughout the placement, with either three or six core assessments depending on the length of the programme selected. Assessment tasks include manuscript proofreading, book reviews and short-story writing. Candidates will be provided with an embossed certificate on completion of the Programme, providing a useful CV-boost, as well as a detailed reference.
In addition to the knowledge and experience gained through the Programme, candidates will be supported in their next steps. This includes first selection for internships and roles within the host publisher or referral to partner companies. During the Programme, candidates will also have the opportunity to establish useful connections within the industry, with the option to work in different locations and take part in seminars and creative workshops. Some successful candidates have even gone on to start their own publishing outlets. The Arkbound Publishing Network is open to those who complete the Programme, offering guidance to those who wish to pursue this route.
The Programme is offered to those eligible to work in the UK with excellent written English skills and proficiency in Microsoft Word. Entry to the Programme is subject to the successful completion of two assessments. It may be possible for candidates to be sponsored for the Programme by Arkbound or another funding body, depending on eligibility.