NCTJ publishes Quality Assurance and Standards Committee report 2024–25

The NCTJ has today published its annual Quality Assurance and Standards Committee report. The committee oversees quality, fairness and standards across all NCTJ qualifications.

The report is published to provide transparency and to share key data on NCTJ qualifications. In 2024–25, 8,606 diploma examinations were sat (excluding shorthand), with over half of those marked achieving the industry gold standard of an A–C grade.

More learners chose digital journalism modules, videojournalism for digital platforms and broadcast journalism, reflecting the skills most in demand across the industry. Apprenticeship registrations also increased, with 166 learners enrolled on the level 5 and 113 on the level 7 journalist apprenticeships.

The report highlights the committee’s focus on emerging challenges, particularly the growing impact of artificial intelligence. It notes progress in managing AI use in coursework and assessment, while emphasising the need to stay aligned with industry practice.

Jonathan Baker, chair of the Quality Assurance and Standards Committee, said: “The NCTJ has made strong progress over the past year, with clear evidence of its ability to adapt to changes in the industry while maintaining high standards across its qualifications.

“The committee was particularly encouraged by the organisation’s proactive approach to artificial intelligence and its commitment to ensuring its training reflects the evolving needs of modern journalism.”

Rob Gray, head of awarding at NCTJ, said: “The report shows that our learners are achieving high standards across our qualifications, while more are choosing digital and broadcast modules. It reflects the skills the industry needs and the work we do to keep our assessments modern and fair.”

The report also highlights areas requiring continued focus, including shorthand and court reporting uptake, while confirming strong performance across most areas.

Read the full Quality Assurance and Standards Committee Report 2024–25 here.