Jersey Evening Post launches new trainee reporter scheme in partnership with the NCTJ
The Jersey Evening Post has launched a new training scheme in partnership with the NCTJ that will see two trainee journalists combine on-the-job experience with online NCTJ training to achieve the industry’s professional Diploma in Journalism qualification.
Trainee journalists Gemma Jones and Daisy Morel kick off training with Sue Calvert
Daisy Morel and Gemma Jones have been recruited by the Jersey Evening Post for this new collaboration delivering an NCTJ training programme with the JEP while working in the newsroom in St Helier in the Channel Islands for the first time. The partnership allows aspiring journalists to develop their skills locally while remaining in their community, perfectly positioned to tell stories that matter to Channel Islands residents.
During their induction day at The Jersey Evening Post offices in St Helier, the new trainees met NCTJ tutors Sue Calvert and Mark Handscomb from Darlington College in person to kick-start their training, which will then be delivered remotely.
Daisy Morel
Daisy, 18, said: “It’s been really helpful to have hands on experience in the newsroom but didn’t think I could study with the NCTJ without going to university so I am really glad that this opportunity came up when it did because it’s a really good qualification to have.
“I have wanted to be a journalist since I was very young. I can talk to anyone and am quite nosy, even though I’m sometimes anxious within myself. Journalism is different every day. There are always new things happening. That’s what makes it so interesting.”
Gemma Jones
Gemma, who worked in retail and advertising before joining the newsroom as an apprentice earlier this year added: “I was fascinated by the pathways that studying with the NCTJ can take you.
“I like the flexibility that distance learning can bring. I’m working on the Pride of Jersey Awards at the moment which has been really rewarding, meeting lots of different people who are being recognised for their hard work”
The NCTJ Diploma in Journalism will provide the trainees with essential journalism skills including media law and regulation, ethics, court reporting, journalism for a digital audience and videojournalism. They will also complete editing skills and business and finance for journalists through specialist distance learning courses and online tutor support.
Lyn Jones, head of qualifications at the NCTJ, said: “We’re delighted to be working with the Jersey Evening Post on this new partnership which will see two talented trainees develop their journalism skills while serving their local community. We’re looking forward to seeing how Gemma and Daisy progress with their training and the stories they tell.”
Both trainee journalists will work alongside experienced JEP reporters and editors throughout their studies, gaining hands-on experience covering local news, politics, business, and community stories. Their deep connection to the islands gives them unique insight into the issues and events that resonate with Channel Islands residents.
The partnership represents a significant investment in Jersey’s media future and demonstrates both organisations’ commitment to maintaining the highest standards in journalism training and professional development while strengthening trusted local news coverage.
