PRCA’s Schools Outreach Programme launches to inspire careers in PR

The PRCA has launched its Schools Outreach Programme with an aim to introduce further diversity into the industry by encouraging students from all backgrounds to consider a career in PR.

The launch comes during National Careers Week and kicks off with a #PRCAschools video series including a two-minute introduction to public relations alongside informal interviews with tips from PR professionals. A 16-page magazine has also been launched in print and digital formats with advice on securing entry-level positions in PR.

With research from 2019’s PRCA Census showing that nine in ten professionals identify as white and 20% of those in PR were educated at fee-paying schools, the industry has lots of work to do to improve the diversity of its workforce. As part of the Schools Outreach Programme, the PRCA has started scheduling appointments for its corporate members to visit schools during March and is encouraging more participants into the initiative.

‘I’d urge all members to join our growing community of volunteers and help us inspire the next generation of PR professionals,’ said PRCA director general Francis Ingham on the launch.

‘Broadening the talent pool is not a virtuous ambition – it is a business imperative. The success and sustainability of our industry is dependent on our workforce reflecting the society it seeks to engage.’

Find out more about PRCA’s Schools Outreach Programme here.