About us

The National Council for the Training of Journalists delivers the premier training scheme for journalists in the UK.  Established in 1951, it is dedicated to providing a world-class education and training system that develops current and future journalists for the demands of a fast-changing multimedia industry.

The NCTJ’s range of products and services include: course accreditation; qualifications; awards; distance learning; careers information; training and continuing professional development; information and research; and communications and events.

While its traditional focus has been in the regional newspaper sector, it is increasingly playing a role in the wider media reflecting the convergence of journalism skills.  The NCTJ is making major developments in training content, delivery, accreditation and assessment, in a fast-changing industry facing challenging new conditions and opportunities.

Recognised by Ofqual, the qualifications and examinations regulator, the NCTJ organises more than 17,000 examinations.  More than 500 journalists train each year for the National Certificate Examination, the qualification for senior professional newspaper journalists, sub-editors, press photographers and photo journalists. 

More than 1,700 students and trainees take the preliminary training and qualifications for news reporters, sub editors, sports journalists, magazine journalists, press photographers and photo journalists.

There are more than 40 colleges, universities and commercial providers approved by the NCTJ to offer accredited journalism training courses leading to NCTJ qualifications.  The organisation provides a range of services for its centres and plays an influential role in all areas of journalism education and training.

CDs, videos and publications, such as Essential Law for Journalists, are highly respected in the journalism field.  The NCTJ is the contact point for those looking for a career in journalism and provides advice to thousands of aspiring and current journalists.

The NCTJ is an independent registered charity.  The organisation won a National Training Award and is an Investor in People at gold level.  Employees are based at its own self-contained offices in Newport, Saffron Walden, Essex as well and there are more than 250 freelance examiners, trainers and industry volunteers.  The organisation’s structure includes trustees of the charity, a board of directors, qualifications and examination boards, editors’ focus groups, forums for heads of journalism and course leaders and a Student Council.

The organisation’s £1m funding comes from media companies, sponsors and from income generated from its products and services.  The NCTJ also administers the Journalism Diversity Fund which awards bursaries to those who cannot afford to train as journalists.