New community reporters begin NCTJ training to strengthen local journalism

Six newly recruited community reporters have begun their NCTJ Diploma in Journalism training at Darlington College, marking a significant milestone in the latest phase of the Community News Project (CNP). This initiative is designed to strengthen local journalism and improve newsroom diversity across the UK.

The diploma, widely recognised as the industry-standard qualification, will equip the reporters with essential skills, including news reporting, media law, public affairs, and shorthand, ensuring they are well-prepared for the demands of a modern newsroom.

Dee Lukasik

While training, the reporters – Jennifer Cartwright, Evie Flynn, Emily Gray, Dorota (Dee) Lukasik, Grace Price, and Safiyyah Tayyeb – will work in their local newsrooms, putting their learning into practice to serve their communities.

Although still early in their roles, the reporters are already contributing to local news coverage. Dee Lukasik, at Kent Online, recently celebrated her first published piece about a Kent couple’s platinum wedding anniversary.

Evie Flynn, from Southwark News said: “My first day on the NCTJ course has been fantastic and I have really got a taste of what is to come. We delved right in with an intro to shorthand, law and essential journalism. I have already learnt so much and gained an understanding of what makes a concise and readable news story alongside the ethical implications journalists face on a day-to-day basis. We even begun writing our first shorthand words and phrases which I know will be so helpful when it comes to our community news reporting.”

Grace Price, from Monmouthshire Beacon said: “Today was my first day of training as a community reporter. I have really enjoyed my first day, I began learning the different aspects of theory for journalism and how it becomes such a great part of what’s to come. This is just the beginning of my journey as a reporter and I am excited to listen and amplify the voices of the community.”

Joanne Forbes, chief executive of the NCTJ, said: “I am proud to see the latest cohort of reporters begin their training at Darlington College. This training is an exciting step in preparing them with the skills they need to tell important local stories and serve their communities effectively.”

Since 2019, the Community News Project has supported more than 200 journalists from diverse backgrounds in launching their careers. This latest phase, funded by £450,000 from NCTJ charitable reserves, ensures the project continues to make a difference.

Please help us secure the future of this vital scheme and support the future of local journalism. Click here to find out more about contributing to the Community Reporting Fund.