Sky Sports News journalist Nick Powell retires as the ‘voice of NCTJ exams’

Sky Sports News journalist and NCTJ alumnus Nick Powell has retired as the ‘voice of the NCTJ’s essential journalism exams’ after nine years in the role.

Nick, who retired from Sky Sports News on his 66th birthday last week, has recorded the exam scenario videos since 2016, bringing his broadcasting expertise to thousands of trainee journalists.

Having completed his own NCTJ training at Cardiff University, he has been a familiar voice in exam rooms across the country.

Reflecting on his time in the role, Nick said: “I’ve really enjoyed being the voice of the NCTJ exams for so long. It’s quite a privilege, as someone who gained his own NCTJ qualifications many decades ago!

“Recording the scripts is sometimes a challenge, because it’s always in-studio during a commercial break, and everyone pretty much stops to let you do it, so there is a fair bit of pressure to get it right first time.”

Nick’s broadcasting career spans nearly three decades with Sky Sports News and Sky News, during which he has won two Royal Television Society awards. His reporting highlights include Super Saturday at the London Olympics, England’s historic Ashes victory at The Oval in 2005, Andy Murray’s first Wimbledon title, and live coverage from the 2007 Rugby World Cup Final in Paris.

Taking over the exam role is fellow Sky Sports News presenter and journalist Jo Wilson.

Jo completed her NCTJ training on the MA Multimedia Journalism course at Glasgow Caledonian University after studying sports media at the University of Stirling.

She said: “I’m really looking forward to taking over the essential journalism exam scenario recordings – having worked for Sky Sports News for over 15 years now, it is great to give something back to where it all began!

“I learnt so much on my NCTJ course and the practical skills I developed helped me progress from graduate trainee level through to presenting full-time on Sky Sports News – I truly believe that without it I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

Nick has given Jo his full support, saying: “Jo Wilson will do a brilliant job going forward – and in time no doubt she too will be stopped by young journalists who’ve sat the exams, who blurt out ‘Oh my God, it’s you!’

“Sometimes they shudder and say hearing my voice takes them right back into that exam room.”

Alison Puttock, assessment manager at the NCTJ, said: “Nick has been an integral part of the NCTJ’s essential journalism exams for nearly a decade, and we are incredibly grateful for his dedication and support. His voice has guided thousands of trainee journalists through their exams, and he will certainly be missed.

“We wish him all the best in his retirement and are delighted to welcome Jo Wilson, who we know will continue this important role with the same professionalism and enthusiasm.”