NCTJ Journalism Outreach Project

The National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ) launched its ’into journalism’ outreach project, aimed at encouraging young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to consider a career in journalism.

The project was open to all NCTJ-accredited course providers, giving institutions across the UK the opportunity to take part.

I entered a bid on behalf of the University of Portsmouth's journalism department and won £4,100 in grant funding.

We worked with City of Portsmouth College and St Vincent College in Gosport to recruit 20+ participants aged 16-18 to deliver practical, skills-based programmes designed to develop their interest in journalism. This took place from March 10-14.

We recruited 21 students, the majority of whom met the project's criteria of coming from lower socio-economic backgrounds.

During the week participants learnt 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 also heard from industry professionals such as Sophie Lewis, a senior reporter at The News, Portsmouth and a former University of Portsmouth student.

At the end of the week, groups produced a video podcast for their final project. This is to be submitted to the NCTJ which will award a national prize to the group or individual judged to have produced the best journalism project.