Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA)

The Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) is a professional body for public relations, public affairs and communications that also acts as an apprenticeship training provider for the PR and communications industry. Its flagship apprenticeship provision is the PRCA Level 4 Higher Public Relations Communications Assistant apprenticeship, a 19‑month skills development programme equivalent to a foundation degree. Apprentices are employed full‑time by their agency or in‑house organisation and work towards a nationally recognised qualification while completing structured on‑the‑job training and assessment. The programme is delivered fully virtually, with each apprentice supported by a dedicated coach who holds monthly meetings for assessment planning and progress reviews. Apprentices spend at least one day per week studying and attend PRCA‑accredited training courses delivered through interactive virtual classrooms and online webinars, alongside building an e‑portfolio of evidence on the OneFile platform. As a training provider, PRCA delivers the training, oversees assessment quality, verifies coaches, offers ongoing support and check‑ins, and is subject to external quality assurance. The organisation also runs networking events and promotes apprentices and their employers. Beyond apprenticeships, PRCA provides a wide range of professional training courses, coaching, qualifications and diplomas, bespoke training, leadership programmes and continuous professional development opportunities for individuals and organisations across the PR and communications sector.