NCTJ celebrates journalism apprenticeships for National Apprenticeship Week 2026

The NCTJ is celebrating National Apprenticeship Week 2026 by highlighting the role journalism apprenticeships play in developing skills, opening doors, and supporting a more diverse and resilient news industry.

Journalism apprenticeships offer a practical and accessible route into the profession, combining on-the-job newsroom experience with off-the-job learning towards an industry-recognised NCTJ qualification. They are available at both junior and senior journalist levels, providing opportunities for people at the start of their careers as well as those looking to progress.

These apprenticeships help to broaden access to journalism, removing barriers and ensuring people from all backgrounds can gain the training and experience needed to succeed in modern, multimedia newsrooms. From local papers to national newsrooms, apprentices are already making a real difference, combining hands-on reporting with professional training.

Jen Cartwright, a journalist completing her apprenticeship through the NCTJ Community News Project at the Yorkshire Evening Post said: “I’ve been part of the Community News Project for almost a year, and it has been a dream come true.

“The apprenticeship route has been a great way to build my industry experience while working towards an NCTJ qualification, and I’ve really enjoyed the balance of working and learning. I’m excited about what the future holds and feel my role has prepared me for the next step in my journalism career.”

Joanne Forbes, chief executive of the NCTJ, said: “National Apprenticeships Week is a great opportunity to celebrate a powerful pathway into the industry, they open doors for more people while providing hands-on experience, high-quality training and an NCTJ qualification”

For more information about journalism apprenticeships, visit: https://www.nctj.com/qualifications-courses/apprenticeships/

Follow the NCTJ on social media throughout National Apprenticeship Week to hear more from apprentices shaping the future of journalism.