NCTJ invests in future journalists with diversity-focused outreach initiative

The NCTJ has launched its ’into journalism’ outreach project, aimed at encouraging young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to consider a career in journalism.

The initiative, taking place this spring, is being delivered in partnership with six education providers: Liverpool John Moores University, City of Liverpool College, Darlington College, University of Portsmouth, University of Sunderland, and the University of Lincoln.

Each centre has been awarded a grant from the NCTJ to recruit participants aged 15-19 and deliver practical, skills-based programmes designed to develop their interest in journalism.

Following the success of the NCTJ’s pilot outreach project in 2023, the latest initiative was open to all NCTJ-accredited course providers, giving institutions across the UK the opportunity to take part.

Through hands-on experience, participants will gain insights into the industry, culminating in the production of a piece of journalism. A prize will be awarded by the NCTJ for the best piece of journalism produced.

The programmes will take place at various points between March and April, with the University of Portsmouth among the first centres to launch its offering this week. The university has partnered with local colleges to offer training to over 20 students.

Participants are learning about the vital role of journalism in society and democracy through practical activities, including visits to Portsmouth Crown Court and the Lord Mayor’s office. They are also hearing from industry professionals such as Sophie Lewis, a senior reporter at The News, Portsmouth, and a former University of Portsmouth student.

Paul Foster, senior lecturer in journalism at the University of Portsmouth, said: “Journalists need to represent the communities they serve. Research shows that simply isn’t happening, so this project is vital in encouraging young people to consider journalism as a future career.

“For whatever reason, young people from a lower socio-economic background feel journalism is either not for them or even beyond them. We hope this project will demonstrate it is not just a credible route but also an exciting prospect.”

The NCTJ’s research has highlighted the need to address social mobility in the industry. Findings from the most recent Journalists at Work report show that journalists are significantly more likely to come from households where a parent works in a higher-level occupation, with 67 per cent of journalists having a parent in one of the top three occupational groups, compared to 45 per cent of all UK workers.

Meanwhile, only 9 per cent have a parent in the lowest two occupational groups, compared to 19 per cent of the general workforce.

Sarah Rix, head of marketing and communications at the NCTJ, said: “Ensuring journalism is open to everyone, regardless of background, is a key priority for the NCTJ. This outreach project will introduce more young people to the industry, giving them the opportunity to develop key skills and an understanding of what a journalism career could offer.

“We thank the participating centres for delivering these fantastic programmes and look forward to seeing the impact they have on participants.”