The Sun has launched a new photography apprenticeship programme, for three aspiring snappers.

The programme follows a raft of schemes from The Sun to increase the diversity of its newsroom to better reflect Britain today. 

In the past year, it has helped to create a route into national journalism for 18 people from non-traditional backgrounds, running a Trainee Journalism Programme, scholarships – for women sports journalists and to increase Muslim representation in newsrooms, Kickstart and apprenticeship schemes.

The Sun’s new photography apprenticeships are a unique opportunity for creative and enthusiastic people who are passionate about news and photography, and want to get hands-on experience working in an exciting and fast paced news environment. 

During a two-year programme, apprentices will earn a London Living Wage, work across all aspects of The Sun’s picture operation such as studio, agency, digital and print news desk and video news, get full training — including from the NCTJ — and have all course fees paid.

Royal Photographer Arthur Edwards said: “It doesn’t matter what your background is or where you went to school. It’s all about the pictures. As an East End kid who left school at 15, I never dreamt I would see inside the Kremlin, the White House and the Vatican.

“My life as a Press photographer has seen me visit over 100 countries and meet dignitaries from our Queen to Nelson Mandela. It’s the best job in the world. That’s why I’d implore any youngster with a love of still or moving images to apply for a Sun apprenticeship.”

Sun photographer Olivia West said: “I gave up teaching for life as a Fleet Street photographer 15 years ago and have never regretted it for a moment. Every day is different. You don’t know what’s coming. And you get to meet people, which I love.”

Sport Picture Editor Aaron Huie added: “The newsroom is ­rocking on big European ­football nights with last- minute goals flying in meaning the back page has to be redrawn with minutes to go before the first print edition.

"It’s about as fast-paced as it can get in this industry.”

Each successful candidate will also receive the equipment they need to succeed in a photography career. They will be given £6,000 worth of kit, which has been donated by Sony.

• To apply for The Sun Photography Apprentice go to thesun.co.uk/photoapprentice.