National Council for the Training of Journalists Annual Report 2015-16 Contents

NCTJ objectives Vital statistics 3

• Strengthen the NCTJ’s role and influence across Chairman’s report 4 all media sectors and related areas where journalism skills are required Chief executive’s report 5 • Accredit high-quality education and training providers and recognise courses of excellence Accreditation 6

• Offer outstanding professional qualifications that Qualifications 10 guarantee the high standards of journalism needed in the workplace Gold standard students 13 • Foster continuing professional development for journalists throughout their careers National Qualification in Journalism 15 • Provide services and products that are Student Council and Diploma in Journalism awards 17 demonstrably helpful and relevant to our stakeholders Journalism Skills Conference and Awards for Excellence 19 • Communicate effectively with all target audiences Journalism Diversity Fund 21 to increase awareness of the NCTJ’s brand values, its role, agenda-setting activities and Careers, distance learning and publications 23 status as a charity Short courses 25 NCTJ values Business and finance review 26 To grow and develop the NCTJ our values are to: • Be fair, accessible and transparent Who we are 28 • Show strong sustainable growth and diversity • Have effective leadership, management and governance • Ensure best use of resources • Be high-profile, respected and influential • Uphold high-quality and relevant standards • Be open, receptive and responsive to change Vital statistics

A total of 461Certificate in Foundation Journalism units were submitted throughout 2015-16 44 candidates successfully completed the full foundation qualification

A total of 15,482 NCTJ examinations/assessments were taken throughout 2015-16 These comprised:

8,286 preliminary exams sat on course 1,151 portfolio assessments 755 were national exam sittings There were 4,538 shorthand exam sittings 1,539 students were enrolled to sit Diploma in Journalism exams on one of 79 accredited courses at 41 approved centres

351candidates achieved the gold standard while on an accredited course 531 students were enrolled on non-accredited courses and sat NCTJ exams

431 candidates sat NCTJ exams in exam sittings 61 candidates successfully completed their certificate in journalism practice The total number of NQJ exams sat was 752 216 trainees sat the National Qualification in Journalism 153 trainees passed the NQJ There were 177 registrations for the NQJ 43 scheduled and in-house short training courses were run in 2015-16

3 Chairman’s report

What a terrific year it has been for news. And what a towards suppliers who demonstrate old-fashioned values terrible year for newspapers. Circulations fall as new such as objectivity and a belief in checking a story is true. generations look online, advertising revenues decline Marketers call that thing a brand. Journalists tend to call it as Facebook and Google sweep up the money. No one by its name, , , the News, the Mail. It’s a says people are losing interest in news, it’s just hard national or local newspaper, a trade journal, a magazine, a to find the financial model that will pay for gathering radio station, a big TV channel. It’s a sign that the teams it: Even the most successful titles have been making that produce it know something about what they do, have reporters redundant. subjected these items to objective scrutiny and applied Don’t listen to anyone who claims to know how things will some checks and balances. work out. For the last 20 years the media industry has If the NCTJ ever lets those standards fall, then we have been experimenting, embracing new technologies, placing failed in our duty as an educational charity. But we need bets, chasing false dawns and, little by little, finding ways to differentiate between principles that should always to make online some of the revenues it used to derive apply to journalism and the skills that might change as from selling that wonderful thing, a newspaper with the industry transforms. We need to equip journalists to stories and adverts in it. work in newsrooms as they are and will be, not just as In those two decades some certainties have proved not to they were. be certain at all: We once believed no one would read long In the last decade, in consultation with employers, pieces online; that only a free model could work on the teachers and trainees, we have changed a lot. We hope internet; that a newspaper and its online version had to we have maintained those vital principles – many of our carry identical copy. Indeed, if we had listened to some course subjects remain mandatory - while allowing the know-it-alls – and I have a horrible feeling I may have next generation to choose the path it wishes to follow. been one of them – there would be no newspapers at all by now. It was in that spirit that we made shorthand optional, a decision that shocked several generations of But some truths survive. People still want to read, watch newspapermen and women. Their reaction was or listen to news. People still want to report it. The reassuring, for it illustrated their strong belief in attractions that have lured generations to the trade standards. And in case there remains any doubt, we continue to apply: Here’s a job that is interesting, did make it clear that those seeking a career in news unpredictable, challenging, fun, mischievous and – should opt for shorthand. yes – important. It’s just not very well paid. So the industry changes and our training changes with it. So let us put these truths about reading news and But never at the expense of standards. Now if anyone has yearning to report it alongside a hypothesis: In a world a sure-fire scheme for making journalism pay… where there are so many acres of “content” (a terrible word that we seem unable to escape, despite its implication that researched and crafted stories are just so Kim Fletcher much stuff that can be used to fill up a website), those Chairman looking for news they can trust will naturally gravitate

4 Chief executive’s review

Reflecting the relentless revolution in the media skills. Our new online regulation test is designed to industry, the NCTJ continues to change by working promote continuing professional development and ethics. alongside those with a long track record of insisting What is most heartening about all our work is the support on high standards as well as those who are new to we receive from those who are passionate about professional journalism training and the media journalism standards. The Journalism Skills Conference business. brings all our supporters together and, alongside our In our mission to uphold high quality and relevant Awards for Excellence, goes from strength to strength. standards, we have to be open, receptive and responsive Our accreditation forums and student council meetings to change. Sometimes we even have to compromise on have become must-attend events. things we hold dear. Our investment in professional research continues with It’s a challenge to step outside our comfort zones, further analysis of the job destinations of journalism especially when the models we are interrogating and graduates and an independent survey of the skill needs of changing have stood the test of time and continue to freelance journalists. serve all our stakeholders so well. We are proud to play a lead role for the journalism sector Our accreditation scheme, qualifications, training courses, as a ‘trailblazer’ in the government’s drive to reform diversity activities and ways of communicating are all apprenticeships. We are keen to support forward-looking changing and growing. employers who want to offer opportunities in journalism to young people from all walks of life and backgrounds. We invest in the development of a broad range of products and services for all journalists and media Fundraising efforts for the Journalism Diversity Fund organisations. Strengthening our role and influence across reached new heights during its tenth anniversary year all media sectors has gone further this year, and demand with record donations and the launch of a new bursary in is increasing from new markets for journalism skills memory of Claire Prosser, founder and former director of outside the media. the BBC Journalism Trainee Scheme. With the cost of training higher than ever and other exciting new diversity We are responding by making radical changes to the projects in the pipeline, we are determined to secure even structure and content of our qualifications and we see this more resources from new sponsors to meet this demand. process as continuous. Our new head of development will take the lead on this Following the comprehensive review of the Diploma in work and other income-generating activities to increase Journalism, our bold decision to offer more choice and our capability and impact. We have a wonderful team of flexibility has shocked many of our stakeholders. directors, staff, examiners and members who are all This work will continue in the year ahead as we consider committed to taking the industry’s charity to the next the results of our review of our flagship qualification, the stage of its development. National Qualification in Journalism, and our highly Although we can never stand still, we remain steadfast in respected accreditation scheme. our values: fairness, accessibility, transparency, growth, We are in the middle of an ambitious two-year project to diversity, leadership, management, governance, transfer NCTJ paper-based examinations to an online resources, profile, respect and influence. This is where we format for delivery and assessment. Online exams are draw the line on change, and we’re not prepared to being introduced from November 2016. compromise. We continue to increase the range and volume of training Joanne Butcher provision for working journalists. Our focus has been to Chief executive help equip journalists and trainers with digital journalism

5 Highbury College’s ‘classroom in the newsroom’ at the Accreditation 2015-16

In times of upheaval and flux, it is an understandable introduced to the diploma. That has included a review and response to seek to reach for something constant and revision of the accreditation industry standard and of the familiar. The NCTJ’s commitment to the highest standards process for centres applying for accreditation, seeking views of journalism training has been unwavering through the from providers, students and employers. decades. The system of accreditation for courses offering When the changes are introduced for 2017-18, we will need journalism tuition remains at the heart of that commitment. to be clear in communicating what the new system of Students, educators and employers know that the badge of accreditation means. Editors will want to know what it means accreditation has real meaning. Those who emerge with a when a job applicant says they have got their gold standard gold standard diploma from an accredited course have NCTJ diploma. Centres will want to be able to market their achieved something important that will help them courses with a clear message around NCTJ accreditation. throughout their career in journalism. Students should have access to information to make an But the process of accreditation is not – and should not be – informed choice. immune to the forces of change. Over the past year, much of the These changes are necessary, but it is also clear that they NCTJ’s work has been devoted to reviewing and restructuring should be founded on the continuing strengths of the system as the diploma to make it fit for purpose for the next generation of it has operated over many years. At the heart of accreditation is aspiring journalists. Some fundamental skills remain as the active involvement in the system of so many editors from all important as ever, principally training students in how to find, sectors of the industry. They ensure that the needs of today’s research, write and publish stories that matter under the newsrooms are clearly transmitted to the tutors responsible for pressure of a deadline. delivering more than 80 accredited courses. But some much-loved craft skills – stone-subbing for a Over the past year, the subject of mobile journalism has been newspaper or editing quarter-inch tape with a razor blade for a debated regularly during accreditation visits. Editors need radio bulletin - are simply no longer required by the industry. recruits with smartphone journalism skills which are in short And as the new-look diploma has emerged after much debate supply in their newsrooms. They want to see evidence that and consultation, the NCTJ has also been considering how course leaders have got the message and are placing greater accreditation should move with the changing times. emphasis on mobile journalism in their timetables. A key consideration has been to build into the accreditation process a degree of flexibility to mirror the changes being

6 While the tools of reporting and the delivery systems for good We are very grateful to all the industry professionals who give journalism are evolving, editors and educators largely agree their time to sit on accreditation panels and provide valuable that the core skills required for success as a journalist are feedback and support. The process of accreditation provides a unchanged. The ability to write clear, straightforward and lively space where editors can meet educators to the benefit of both English, a commitment to getting the facts right first time every sides. If a course is accredited by the NCTJ, a prospective time, an instinct for knowing when something seems not quite student can be sure that they will be learning the essential skills right, a curiosity about the world and the knack of being able to of the trade from teachers with a wealth of professional talk to people from all walks of life. Time and again, successful experience. This happens because an NCTJ-accredited course courses demonstrate during the accreditation process that they delivers vocational training which meets an industry standard are producing journalists who possess all these attributes recognised across the UK media as the hallmark of excellence. and more. The NCTJ believes that the solid framework of core skills It has been a delight to welcome so many new editors making provided by the industry standard gives the experts at their first appearance on an accreditation panel. They continue universities, colleges and commercial training centres the to be enthusiastic to take up the opportunity to do their bit, freedom to create individual courses according to their own even though the pressures of the day job are often intense. preferred structure and using their favoured methods of Meanwhile, other editors who have been regular panel teaching. members for several years have continued to support Reports from visits all over the country are considered by the accreditation visits. We trust they will continue to contribute accreditation board. In the past year, the chairmanship of the their wisdom and experience in the future. board has passed to Andy Cairns, executive editor of Sky Sports The involvement of senior working journalists from all parts of News, following Chris Elliott’s decision to stand down. Andy is the industry is at the heart of an accreditation system which is passionate in his commitment to helping employers to create professional, challenging, supportive and fair. Course leaders diverse newsrooms where the most talented can thrive, value the opinions of editors, and panellists are often invited regardless of class or background. Accreditation panels have back to give a guest lecture. In their turn, editors always want to been told of good work being done by outreach and mentoring hear first-hand from the students. They can be relied on to give programmes at a number of universities and colleges. But their own perspective on the course and the tutors. You would everyone knows that there is more to be done, and the board expect nothing else from would-be reporters. will continue to ask for evidence of change in the year ahead.

News Associates students compete in the Shorthand World Cup

7 Results tables believes their course meets the industry standard should get in touch with the NCTJ to begin the process of accreditation. They The NCTJ publishes annual results tables covering all should, though, keep in mind that even in changing times, the accredited courses. The tables for 2015/16 will be posted on the badge of accreditation will continue to represent world-class NCTJ website at the end of the year. standards in journalism training. The tables show the number/percentage of students completing an accredited course gaining A to C grade passes in each exam and, in the case of shorthand, the number/percentage of ACCREDITATION BOARD students passing at a minimum speed of 100 words per minute for each course. They also show the number/percentage of MEMBERSHIP students completing an accredited course gaining A to E grade passes in each exam and, in the case of shorthand, the Chairman number/percentage of students passing at a minimum speed of Andy Cairns, executive editor, Sky Sports News 60 wpm for each course. In 2014/15, the multimedia sports journalism course at News Members Associates London was the best performing independent Paul Connolly, managing director, Clipstorm/SmartVideo provider course, achieving a 100 per cent gold standard pass Graham Dudman, tutor and consultant, rate. This course also took the overall award for the best- News Associates London performing accredited course across all sectors. Will Gore, deputy managing editor, The Independent & The top performing courses across the other different types of London Evening Standard centre were: Sue Green, City of Wolverhampton College • Further education fast-track: Highbury College David Holmes, lecturer in journalism, University of • Further education academic year: City of Wolverhampton Sheffield College (for the fifth year running) Steve Nelson, editorial training, • Higher education postgraduate: University of Sussex MA Journalism Ian Reeves, director of learning and teaching, University of Kent • Higher education undergraduate: Nottingham Trent University BA (Hons) News Journalism Michelle Stanistreet, general secretary, National Union of Journalists The NCTJ accreditation process – whether for part-time or full- Chas Watkin, editor, You and Yours, BBC time courses, at universities, colleges and independent Joy Yates, editorial director, Johnston Press North East providers – aims to achieve the following: • Ensure the NCTJ syllabus is delivered effectively so that students leave the course ready to work as trainee journalists and eventually achieve their professional ACCREDITATION VISITS IN NUMBERS qualification, the NQJ, which raises them to the level of a senior journalist Total of full accreditation panel visits made in 2015-16: 29 – 15 to HE courses; 8 to FE courses; 6 to independent providers. • Support course leaders and lecturers as they work to There were also six advisory or monitoring visits to centres. teach students the converged skills that they need to work effectively in a 21st century newsroom Number of senior journalists who served as panel members: 56 – 41 men and 15 women; 31 work principally for • Work in partnership with course providers and the newspapers; 14 in broadcasting and 11 in other sectors. accreditation board to maintain and inform an Almost half of the panellists involved during 2015-16 were accreditation process that ensures quality, “real world” taking part in accreditation visits for the first time. journalism skills which is flexible enough to accommodate creative initiatives Approximate total mileage travelled from NCTJ HQ on accreditation visits: 10,800. From Fife to Falmouth, and from Cardiff to Kent, the NCTJ currently accredits more than 80 courses at 41 centres in every nation and region of the . Any centre that

8 De Montfort University journalism students celebrate course graduation

ACCREDITATION PANEL MEMBERS

Laura Adams, editorial director, London Owain Jones, editor, Rugby World Bex Bastable, content editor, Sussex Newspapers Julian Joyce, BBC Academy Brien Beharrell, vice chairman, NCTJ Liana Kyparissis, freelance journalist Richard Best, Straightshot PR Pauline McKenna, assistant editor, BBC NI News Online Jon Gripton, editor, BBC Spotlight Ken Morley, editor, Harlow Star Louise Birt, editor, BBC Essex Doug Morris, editor, BBC Newcastle Kelly Brown, deputy content editor, Sussex Newspapers Keith Morris, group content editor, Newsquest Cheshire Andy Cairns, executive editor, Sky Sports News Adam Moss, editor, Target newspapers Dominic Castle, head of editorial design, Archant Ian Murray, editor, Southern Daily Echo Crispin Clark, former editorial training manager, Steve Nelson, training manager, Newsquest Midland News Association Nikki O’Donnell, editor, BBC Look East Drew Cochrane, editorial consultant, Largs and Millport News Matthew Panting, north Kent sports editor, KM Group Paul Connolly, readers’ editor, Belfast Telegraph Claire Pitcher, freelance editor Mark Dunford, sports editor, Sussex Newspapers Gillian Parkinson, editor, Evening Post Chris Elliott, readers’ editor, The Guardian James Porter, head of UK training, BBC Academy Nancy Fielder, editor, Sheffield Star Marc Reeves, editor, Birmingham Mail and West Midlands Karen Flynn, head of editorial development, BBC News 24/7 editor-in-chief, Trinity Mirror Regionals Lesley Gibson, freelance writer and editor Andrew Ross, business editor, Southern Daily Echo Will Gore, deputy managing editor, London Evening Standard, Mike Sassi, editor, Nottingham Post The Independent Mike Shallcross, associate publisher, Mark Allen Group Ben Green, digital editor, Sheffield Star Chris Styles, editor, The Gazette Ross Gregory, head of sport, Sunderland Echo David Thomas, editor, West Briton Keith Harrison, editor, Express and Star Mark Thomas, former editor, Daily Post Dave Hart, editor, Inside Out, BBC Birmingham Tom Thomson, consulting editor, Newsquest Scotland Nicholas Hitchens, deputy group managing editor, Laurie Tucker, day editor, Sky Sports News Newsquest south London Leo Whitlock, editor, Kentish Gazette Stephen Hull, UK editor-in-chief, Huffington Post James Wills, editor-in-chief, Colchester Gazette Richard Jackson, editor, Newsday, BBC World Service Sam Woodman, head of news, Worthing Herald Mark James, head of international training, BBC Academy Mark Wray, head of training, BBC Academy Alex Jenkins, editor, magazines and supplements, Johnston Joy Yates, editorial director, Johnston Press North East Press South 9 BBC apprentices receive certificates at Wolverhampton College graduation Qualifications Apprenticeships The ‘trailblazer’ apprenticeship employer group, facilitated by the NCTJ, has begun research on the possibility of developing a During 2015-16 there were two training providers higher level apprenticeship in journalism. delivering training for junior journalist apprentices: City of Wolverhampton College and Lambeth College. Apprenticeship employers include: Sky Sports News; BBC; Archant London; Midland News Association and the KM Media Group. The NCTJ is approved by the Skills Funding Agency (SFA) as the independent assessment organisation for the end-point assessments for the junior journalist apprenticeship standard. Our role is to assess and quality assure the work-related projects produced by apprentices towards the end of their training leading to the award of the apprenticeship. The NCTJ will also be responsible for issuing their final apprenticeship certificate along with the NCTJ Diploma in Journalism qualification, which apprentices must also achieve while on the scheme. In partnership with the Association of Colleges, the NCTJ took part in a pilot project to test the new end-point assessment with three apprentices from the broadcast, magazine and newspaper media sectors. Future Apprenticeships commissioned the Association of Colleges (AoC) to report on a series of ‘mock end- point assessments’ with the key objective of enabling testing and trials before major roll-out nationally. The outcomes helped to inform the apprenticeship standard for end-point assessments and ensure that junior journalist apprentices can successfully demonstrate the journalism skills they gained while on the scheme. Lambeth College journalism students visit the Crossrail tunnels

10 Diploma in Journalism Chief examiners’ reports Outcomes of a comprehensive review of the content and The annual chief examiners’ report for the Diploma in structure of the Diploma in Journalism conducted in 2015 have Journalism 2015-16 will be published alongside the NCTJ- informed the new shape of the qualification being delivered from accredited courses’ results tables at the end of 2016. Chief September 2016. examiners provide an overview on candidates’ performance during the academic year for each individual subject in the The revised qualification includes a new mandatory module, qualification and an overall performance summary is given by essential journalism, which covers core newsgathering and the NCTJ’s principal examiner, Amanda Ball. A chief examiners’ reporting skills using digital platforms, social media, data and report for the National Qualification in Journalism (NQJ) is also analytics. The module is assessed by an online exam and e- published three times a year after each exam sitting. portfolio. All candidates will be tested on their knowledge and understanding of either print and/or broadcast regulation in an online test or exam. Shorthand and public affairs become elective options, but remain mandatory for certain pathways including news journalism.

NCTJ Level 3 Diploma in Journalism 82 credits

MANDATORY SKILLS MODULES

Essentia l journalism Essential journalism Essential journalism Essential Includes: e-portfolio ethics and regulation media law and

Finding and telling stories; accuracy Includes: Includes: regulation

and good use of English; Combination of essential Includes: Standards in journalism; integrity interviewing skills and techniques; journalism skills; creative and and propriety; the impact of General reporting; defamation how to develop stories; use of social original research; interviewing journalism on individuals; and and contempt; copyright; media; writing for digital platforms, skills; and mobile journalism IPSO and regulation privacy; and an introduction to including video and mobile journalism; SEO; an introduction to court reporting and IPSO and 12 credits 3 credits data journalism; audience analytics; Ofcom regulation and copy-editing 10 credits 22 credits

plus a selection of ELECTIVE SKILLS MODULES to reach a minimum 82 credits

Public affairs Media law court Shorthand Broadcast PR and Business and for journalists reporting for journalists journalism communications finance for journalists journalism 7 credits 7 credits 14 credits 14 credits 14 credits 7 credits

Videojournalism Photography Sports Production Business of for online for journalists journalism journalism magazines

7 credits 7 credits 7 credits 7 credits 7 credits

Candidates must complete media law court reporting, shorthand for journalists at 100wpm, and public affairs elective skills modules to be eligible to progress to the National Qualification in Journalism. Candidates may complete more elective skills modules to provide a wider range of career opportunities.

11 Certificate in Foundation Journalism Bespoke qualifications The Certificate in Foundation Journalism continues to attract The NCTJ designs and delivers bespoke qualifications for in- learners, particularly distance learners, keen to gain an house training programmes. Eight employees at Mark Allen introduction to journalism skills. The qualification is suitable for Group, a specialist magazine publishing company, were the first anyone aged 16+ with an interest in journalism. The first two to be awarded the bespoke NCTJ level 4 Diploma in Magazine distances learners to complete the level three qualification were Journalism during the summer. Heather Bellamy and Benedict Tetzlaff-Deas We also work with the BBC and Sky Sports News, delivering Heather said: “I’ve enjoyed every minute of the Certificate in bespoke qualifications to meet employer requirements and the Foundation Journalism. I have learned so much and got a professional development of their employees. lot out of doing all of the assessments.” The regulators Benedict said: “I would highly recommend the course to The NCTJ is a recognised awarding organisation regulated by anyone who, like me, is looking to get into a career in Ofqual, Qualifications Wales and the Council for the Curriculum, journalism. Not only does it provide you with valuable Examinations and Assessment (CCEA) in Northern Ireland. NCTJ practical, ethical and legal background to the profession, qualifications are listed on the government’s Register of but it also counts towards your UCAS credits, making it a Regulated Qualifications. The NCTJ ensures its qualifications are great stepping stone towards higher education.” valid, reliable and deliverable and we have to confirm our compliance with each regulator’s conditions of recognition by Social enterprise group Oxford Community Media also submission of an annual statement of compliance. Ofqual, completed the certificate this year. Run by Sarah Edwards, Qualifications Wales and CCEA take a risk-based approach to former editor at the Oxford Mail, nine candidates successfully monitoring awarding organisations and during 2015-16, the gained the qualification NCTJ confirmed it was fully compliant with all three regulators. Quality Assurance and Standards Online assessment The Quality Assurance and Standards committee reports each The NCTJ is working with Cirrus Assessment, a specialist year with the aim of sharing data it examines, reviews and e-assessment company, to introduce online exams for its debates and ensuring reliability and transparency of NCTJ qualifications and assessments. Starting with the Diploma in senior management. Chaired by Sean Dooley, its remit covers Journalism, extensive testing and development work has taken results analysis, appeals, complaints, reasonable adjustments, place throughout the year and a new essential journalism exam malpractice and maladministration. The QA+S committee also plus a multiple-choice regulation test will be introduced from work to maintain the NCTJ’s compliance with the regulatory September 2016. Other diploma exams and qualifications will body, Ofqual. Notably, the committee received 11 appeals in move to the online platform from 2017. 2015-16, a decrease of six on the 2014-15 figures.

UCAS tariffs UCAS allocated new tariff points to the following NCTJ qualifications based on a new tariff points formula that informs entry to higher education from 2017*:

NCTJ level 3 Certificate in Foundation Journalism: NCTJ level 3 Diploma in Journalism:

Grade Size band Grade band Tariff points Grade Size band Grade band Tariff points

P 188 P 4+2 8 48

* Entry from: UCAS Tariff Tables: New tariff points for entry to higher education from September 2017, updated for September 2016.

12 Gold standard students

The following 351 students achieved the NCTJ gold standard in the Diploma in Journalism: A-C grades in all modules and 100wpm shorthand.

Alex Lawlor Catherine Lund Ben Young Brighton Journalist Works Jordan Elizabeth Reynolds Carly Minsky Elizabeth Batchelor Simon Green Chantal Stewart-Jones Leanne Phinikas Rebecca Chaplin Charles Hayton Jack Andrews Sean Ellis Emily Collis David Bates Ella Griffiths Leah Craig Cornwall College Albertine Brandon David Ker Kristian Culmer Laura Brainwood Alexander Brown Felicity Martin Jessica Wells Alexandra Quinn Josh Budd Faith Strickland Jake Wilson Matthew Clemenson Jennifer Taylor Isabella Cipirska Alastair Cliffe Stuart Ballard Calum Rutter Darlington College Philip Thomas Buckingham Jennifer Cook Nathaniel Barker Julie-Anne Breach Nicholas Gullon Helen Corbett Callum Burroughs Alex Howell Rebecca Sarah Parkinson Laurence Dollimore Robert Cottingham Lucy Dyer Daniel Stables Brunel University Camila Gaard Daniel Zeqiri Lucas Arnold De Montfort University James Hockaday Emma Brazell Bethany Smith Benjamin Evans Madeleine Howell Matthew Burton Johanna Puustinen Robbie Hurley Morgan Condon Joseph Shread Glasgow Caledonian Emily Jephcott Thomas Deacon Shelby Stapleton University Lucy Jones Fiona McIntyre Indra Warnes Jemma McGuffie Anna Khoo Lucy Middleton Adrian Williams Brian Patrick McLaughlin Connor Lovell Rory O’Connor Katie Williams Robbie Spencer Swanson Armstrong Sean Morrison Lucy Pasha-Robinson Craig James Cairns George Ogleby Pavle Popovic Sara Oldfield Oliver Trebilcock Cardiff University Lucy Palfreeman Lauren Windle Sophie Baggott Glasgow Clyde College Chantelle Pearce Charlie Bayliss Jonathan Brady Helen Reid Matthew Dresch Tom Towers News Associates – Conor Gogarty Emily Townsend Manchester Katie Gupwell Highbury College Lily Waddell Simon Allin Chris Humphreys William Hayward Lucy White Jessica Beard Shannon Johnson Emma James Alex Yeates Lloyd Bent Imogen Marshall William Kirby Charlie Roberts Jessica Clark Bethan Moorcraft Ciaran Steward Rosemary Collins Sam Sholli Kingston University Charlie Bennett James Dawson Joseph Smith John Fitzpatrick Sean Davies Marco Ferrari Steffan Thomas Alexander Lynn Shona Duthie Andrew Georgeson Jack Vittles Ida Mork Jake Evans Chloe Laversuch Glen Williams Katie Falkingham Joseph Loftus Imogen Harry Adam Payne Lambeth College Iqbal Johal Emma Powys Maurice City of Liverpool College Marco Cillario Rosalyn Roden Jennifer Marguerite Browne James Johnston Claire Corkery Felix Keith Sara Royle Kate Alexandra Parry Shruti Sheth Dominic Smithers Ryan Paton Barnaby Kellaway Jack Dixon Dimitri Kondonis Neelam Tailor Thomas Power Frances Berry Will Taylor Jordan Daniel Welch Ross Lawson Estelle Hakner David Marsh Dominic Thomas William Rooney Francesca Tobi Michael Kazich Thomas Mcilroy Paul McNamara Hannah Watte Thomas Cantoni Leeds Trinity University Ellis Whitehouse Gemma Lauren Yates David Mackie Tom Phillips Alice Piper Jessica Wood Tim Redigolo Catherine Murphy City of Wolverhampton News Associates – London Adam Shaw Jonny Yates College Boye Adeniyi Ben Smith Ned Bristow Tanzila Ali Katie Avis-Riordan Jonathan Spencer Ellie Caddick Kayley Dickinson Imogen Buller Elizabeth Culliford Sam Tobin Simon Davis Niall Griffiths Sean Eric Crutchley Ellie Walter Laura Victoria Hunt Helena Gumley-Mason Edward Higgs Mathieu Wood Gah-Kai Leung Jonathan Hogan

13 Eve Langford Verity Gallagher Adam Leah Alicia Watts Ulster University University of Sunderland Aine O’Donnell Alice Jones Nicholas Marko Tom Pilgrim Richard O’Reilly Georgia Trevitt Jack Marshall Thomas Williams Samantha Spowart James Perkins Alessandra Bocchi Duncan Robinson Helen Cahill University of Brighton Thomas Avery Adam Clark Luke Adams University of Sussex Matt Ford Michael Drummond Rebekah Chilvers Ciara Hanstock Will Griffee Stephen Topping Alexander Matthews University of Central Joshua Phillips Clara Strunck Lancashire Charlotte Johnstone Catherine Wyatt Ryan Gould Jason Keith Christina Wood Press Association Training University of Kent – Newcastle Sarah Boast Nottingham Trent Jack Brooke-Battersby Jacqueline Gordon University Thomas Dodd Alistair Daniel Iveson Harry Briggs Thomas Mackintosh Lauren Meechan Jacob Brigstock Phil Smith Abigail Morris Megan Cox Luke Barnes Abigail Nuttall Matt Davies Hannah Graham Adele Couchman Rachel Davies-Day George Smith Lauren Harris Samantha Eneli Rebecca Murphy Henry George Sandercock Ryan Hathaway Neil Clark Natalie Elizabeth Tipping Ryan Johns Katie Feehan Louisa Emily Angela Britton Abigail Kellett Sophie Halsey Kishan Rakesh Koria Darcy King Emmie Harrison Chloe Perceval Ophelia King Beth Baldwin Stephen Linsley Emma Duggan University of Lincoln Christopher Morgan David Hannant Holly O’Flinn Aleesha Newton Thomas Hornall Rachael Lowes Emma Page Bethany Lodge Elena Thompson Jonathan Rees Lucy Thompson Geraldine Scott University of Portsmouth Katie Tudor Sean Seddon Alex Bee Catherine Webster Bethany White Darren James Hunt Joshua Wright Harriet Bishop Charlotte Johnson George Allen Sasha Morris Kate Byrne Joshua Searle Jemma Page St Mary’s University Nicola Slade Coral Barry Nick Palmer Kimberley Louise Smith Michael Cantillon James Bavin Molly Grace Innes Stooke James Dale Jenny Lee Georgina Moore Tom Tibble Max Qayyum Michael Clayton Jodie Armstrong Sam Evans Elizabeth McIntyre University of Salford Ed Hutson Rosalind Haffner Stewart Thorpe Jack Rathborn Kyle Mitchieson Press Association University of Sheffield Charlotte Cripps Training – London Estel Farell Roig Chloe Chaplain Staffordshire University Laura O’Callaghan Finola Fitzpatrick Sian Elvin Natasha Hardy Alex Grove Christopher Hawes Tom Burnett Rhys Handley Victoria Ibitoye Emma James Josephine Gallacher Lara Keay Rob Smith Christopher Coates Camilla Ker Sophie Halle-Richards Sam Layton Nitya Kanoria Imogen Robinson Teesside University Lucy Abersteen Anne Suslak Rebecca Connolly NaomiBartram Esra Gurkan Jodie Lightfoot Catarina Beija Niamh Ollerton Sophie Finnegan David Scullion Samuel Jones Christine Dawson Iona Peers Anna O’Donohue Cheuk Ling Ann Yip

14 National Qualification in Journalism List of all who passed the NQJ between July 2015 and March 2016

Stuart Anderson The News, Portsmouth Christopher Flanagan Elizabeth Massey Medway Messenger Christopher Anderson The Rebecca Flood The Ed McConnell Kent Messenger Esme Louise Ashcroft Bristol Post Emily Ford Southern Daily Echo Alexander McIntyre Congleton Chronicle Annabal Bagdi Oxford Mail James Forrest Matthew McKew Isle of Wight County Press

Anthony Barej Hertfordshire Mercury Clare Rose Freeman Medway Messenger Sabah Meddings Eastern Aidan Barlow Kentish Gazette Katie French Mid Devon Gazette Simon Meechan Maidenhead Advertiser Rachel Barr Crawley News & East Grinstead Courier Elizabeth Fry Burton Mail Briana Millett Weston Worle & Somerset Mercury Jessica Bave Basingstoke Gazette Harvey John Gavin Joanna Morris Michael Benke Duncan Geddes Hampshire Chronicle Sophie Morton Newham Recorder Sophie Biddle Sam Gelder Ilford Recorder Thomas Alexander Morton Shropshire Star Imogen Blake Ham & High Joanna Gilbert East Grinstead Courier Chloe Mosdell Canterbury Times Nathan Briant Francesca Gillett South Wales Argus Simon Murfitt Brentwood Gazette Bess Browning Faversham News Chiara Giordano The Herald, Plymouth Sebastian Murphy-Bates Barking & Dagenham Post James Byrne Congleton Chronicle Amie Gordon Midhurst and Petworth Observer Charlotte Louise Neal Hampshire Chronicle Daniel Cain Worthing Herald Alexandra Grainger Maldon and Burnham Standard Thomas Norton Nottingham Post Eleanor Cambridge Surrey Comet Polly Grice Eastern Daily Press Zoie O’Brien Waltham Forest Guardian Nicholas Carding Eastern Daily Press Judith Hawkins Grantham Journal George Odling The Richmond & Twickenham Times Laura Cartledge Chichester Observer Emma Hobley Braintree and Witham Times Matthew Oliver Oxford Mail Patrick Christys The Westmorland Gazette Kirsty Hough Braintree & Witham Times Ruth Ovens Wells Journal Louisa Clarence-Smith Wimbledon Guardian CarlJackson Express and Star Ian Parker Suffolk Free Press Daniel Clark Herald Express Ian Paul Johnson The Scarborough News David Parker Newark Advertiser Andrew Colley Jack Johnson Oxford Mail Adam Parris-Long The Luton News Rachel ConnerThe Northern Echo Philip Jones Southend Evening Echo Douglas Patient East London and West Essex Guardian Phoebe Cooke Newham Recorder Ciaran Kelly South Wales Argus Charlie Peat Enfield Independent Lauren Cope Eastern Daily Press Rebecca King Shropshire Star Christopher Peddy Derby Telegraph Beren Cross Swindon Advertiser Michael William Knowles Joshua Pennington Winsford & Middlewich Guardian Gareth Davies Andrew Lawton Gazette & Herald Eleanor Perkins East Kent Mercury Eleanor Davis Surrey Advertiser Rob Lowson Telegraph & Argus Rebecca Pike Canterbury Times Patrick Dinham Hertfordshire Mercury John Lucas Braintree & Witham Times Eleanor Pipe Sidmouth Herald Robert Doman NWN Media Ben Lugg Stratford-upon-Avon Herald Luke Anthony Powell Eastern Daily Press Anna Dove The Scotsman Kieran Lynch Eastern Daily Press Sophie Grace Prideaux Bristol Post Mark Edwards Surrey Advertiser Sophie Madden Shropshire Star Oliver Pritchard The Comet Greg Farrimond Wigan Evening Post Peter Madeley Express & Star Sarah Robinson Weston, Worle & Somerset Mercury Douglas Faulkner-Gawlinski Eastern Daily Press Flossie Mainwaring-Taylor The Westmorland Gazette Annabel Rusbridge-Thomas Kent Messenger Samantha Fisher Leicester Mercury Amy-Clare Martin Kent & Sussex Courier Stuart Rust Gloucestershire Gazette

15 Natasha Margaret Jean Salmon Surrey Advertiser Rosanagh Swarbrick Lancashire Evening Post James Walker Kent Messenger James Scott The Comet Harley Tamplin West Sussex County Times Rhian Waller NWN Media Matthew Scrafton Grimsby Telegraph Rebecca Louise Taylor Wandsworth Guardian Zachary Ward Diss Express Joshua Searle Surrey Mirror Carys Thomas South Wales Argus Sarah Ward Kent and Sussex Courier Mark Shales Newham Recorder Charlotte Tobitt Surrey Advertiser William Watkinson Essex Chronicle Rebecca Louise Shepherd Surrey Advertiser Oscar William Tollast Richard Welch South Wales Evening Post Matthew Simpson The Sentinel Berny Torre Crawley Observer Harriet Whitehead Scunthorpe Telegraph Chloe Smith The Cornishman Georgina Townshend Surrey Advertiser Joseph Wilkes Mid Somerset Newspapers Thomas Smuthwaite Surrey Advertiser Toby Wadey Sheri Jean Willis The Western Gazette Florence Snead Cambridge News Ron Walker The Weston and Somerset Mercury Daniel Wright Kentish Gazette Luke Sproule Oxford Mail William Walker Newbury Weekly News Sarah Yates Bury Times &

NQJ awards

There are six different awards for candidates of the reporters’ National Qualification in Journalism (NQJ). Four awards are presented after each exam cycle (three a year), and there is also an annual award, given out at the end of the academic year.

The Ted Bottomley award for the best performance in the media law and practice exam: Jessica Bell, News Shopper Luke Sproule, Oxford Mail Charlotte Tobitt, Surrey Advertiser

Society of Editors’ award for the best performance in the news interview exam: Rebecca Choules, Hemel Hempstead Gazette Simon Murfitt, Brentwood Gazette Adam Parris-Long, The Luton News The Newsquest award for the best logbook: Rachel Conner, The Northern Echo Michael Race, Oxford Mail Joshua Searle, Surrey Mirror

The Esso award for the best performance in the news report exam: Francesca Gillett, South Wales Argus Hannah Mirsky, Cambridge News The Paul Durrant award sponsored by Archant for Charlotte Tobitt, Surrey Advertiser the best NQJ candidate working for a newspaper in the East of : Charlotte Austen-Hardy, Chelmsford Weekly News

16 NCTJ senior management answer questions from diploma students at the Student Council Student Council and Diploma in Journalism awards

Students from all over the UK were given the chance to grill plan and stressed the importance of learning the craft of industry professionals and NCTJ representatives during the reporting. She added that she was looking for trainees who Student Council at the Google News Lab in London. would be audience-focused while maintaining the core values of journalism. At the ninth annual event, 47 young journalists represented their accredited courses and had their opinions heard by key Preceding the editors’ panel, the NCTJ management team, members of the industry’s training body. including chief executive Joanne Butcher, took questions from the student representatives on all aspects of accredited The Student Council also acts as a networking and development courses, including: exam availability; the scope of the public opportunity, giving the delegates direct access to experienced affairs exam; and shorthand resources for those with professionals who are best-placed to offer advice on disabilities. progressing in journalism. The afternoon session began with presentations from the A panel of industry professionals was chaired by Andy Cairns, students following group discussions about the current training Sky Sports News executive editor and head of the NCTJ and resources available from the NCTJ and ideas on how they accreditation board; Matt Cooke, Google News Lab lead for the could be improved. A select group of representatives, nominated UK, Ireland and the Nordics; and George Sargent, social media by their peers during the group exercise, were invited to put producer, Reuters television agency. their views to the NCTJ board of directors in June. They were asked a range of questions including what they look for when recruiting staff and how the panellists view the future of journalism, as well as some topical questions on the issue of public trust in the media, the globalisation of news and “As journalists we are responsible consumer trends for the future. for delivering the truth and we Andy advised the audience to not be shy about the skills they have to offer and always look for ways of improving themselves, should never compromise on that.” both during their NCTJ training and during their careers. Laura Adams, editorial director, Archant London This was a sentiment echoed by NCTJ board member and editorial director for Archant London, Laura Adams, who encouraged all students to ask employers about a development

17 Diploma in Journalism awards Nine NCTJ students reaped the rewards for their hard work in the This was the first time a student on the diploma distance learning Diploma in Journalism exams by being presented with prizes at programme picked up an award. History was made a second time the annual NCTJ Student Council meeting in London. at the awards with the first double win by News Associates The top-performing students across the UK were presented with London’s Conor Gaffey. their awards in front of their peers, and ITV’s Charlene White led the ceremony. Award winners received a certificate and a cheque for £250.

Archant HoldTheFrontPage award reporting award for production journalism Conor Gaffey, James Gray, News News Associates London Associates Manchester

Sky Sports News award for shorthand (110/120 words per minute) Johnston Press award Conor Gaffey, for court reporting News Associates, London Malte Rohwer-Kahlmann, University of Sheffield

Mark Allen Group business ITV News award for of magazines award broadcast journalism Smitha Sadanandan, George Torr, The Lambeth College Sheffield College

Oxford University Press Mustard TV award for public affairs for videojournalism Laura Drysdale, Adrian Williams, University of Sheffield Brunel University

Society of Editors’ Oxford University Press shorthand award media law award (100 wpm) Tanita Cross, Georgina Moore, distance learner University of Portsmouth

18 Awards for Excellence winners at the Library of Birmingham

Journalism Skills Conference and Awards for Excellence

The 2015 Journalism Skills Conference was hosted by the communications module. The delegates were then given a BBC Academy in Birmingham, taking the conference to the masterclass in mobile journalism by Marc Settle, smartphone heart of the BBC’s training operation and digital hub. training leader at the BBC Academy. The eighth annual conference opened on 26 November at The A gala dinner at the Library of Birmingham followed, with an Mailbox, where the academy is based, with delegates travelling awards ceremony hosted by BBC ’ Nick Owen. from across the UK to attend. The event is a chance for It was the second year the awards were sponsored by NFL UK, journalism’s education, training and industry sectors to share and guests were addressed by David Tossell, director of public good practice, exchange ideas and debate the competing affairs for NFL International and an NCTJ alumnus who studied priorities in journalism training. at Harlow College. The afternoon began with two keynote speeches on the ongoing The categories included: news journalism; sports journalism; digital revolution. The first address was by David Holdsworth, features; top scoop/exclusive; images; multimedia BBC English regions controller, who spoke about the future of story/campaign; and best student publication. journalism. The second address was by Andrew Hawken, Sky Performance awards were also presented to the apprentice, News head of digital. Andrew discussed some of the latest Sky student and trainee of the year, and to the top five NCTJ courses News campaigns that were aimed at making rolling news with the highest percentage of students achieving the NCTJ coverage more engaging. He went on to highlight the need for gold standard: A-C grade passes in all exams plus 100 wpm journalists who were passionate, not just about the story, but shorthand. the creative ways in which it needed to be told. Andrew said that Sky News are investing in original and distinct content and Day two began with an address by Jeff Moriarty, chief digital are optimistic about the digital-first future. and product officer for Johnston Press, who shared how JP had moved from print to digital and then on to social-first strategies. The discussion moved to a panel setting chaired by Paul While emphasising the continued importance of traditional Lashmar. Investigative editors and reporters shared some of the reporting skills, he said the new generation of journalists would new ways in which they sourced their scoops but remained also need to be able to interpret data, have social media committed to their best source: contacts. Panelist Jeanette intelligence, know when to publish content and how to Oldham, Birmingham Mail investigations editor, said that despite distribute information effectively to work in this new all the tech and tools available, journalists need to be able to environment. see the bigger picture. There was a discussion on the reshaping of the NCTJ Diploma Neil White gave a presentation on the new structure of the in Journalism where delegates were able to provide feedback to Diploma, and there was a panel debate on the upcoming PR and the NCTJ senior management team including NCTJ consultant

19 Mark Spilsbury and BBC Academy head, Mark Wray. Chairman’s award Introducing the rationale for the proposed changes, Neil White said: “It’s important that the NCTJ remains relevant among Sue Green, journalism trainer and NCTJ examiner, was the 2015 journalism teaching, and we want the diploma to be more recipient of the chairman’s award. inclusive perhaps than it is already. We want it to be looking out The winner of the annual award is nominated by their peers and towards the various strands of a journalism career.” the prize is intended to celebrate the individual’s outstanding The day continued with a panel debate on diversity in the contribution to high standards of journalism training. newsroom. Led by Abu Bundu-Kamara, NCTJ board member, During the presentation, Kim Fletcher praised Sue as “an the panellists discussed how newsrooms needed to reflect the inspirational trainer who placed Wolverhampton College firmly communities they served. and consistently at the top of the results tables and, working with the BBC Academy, has pioneered training for apprentices from a wider talent pool.” Kim added: “Hugely popular with our staff, Sue is a fantastic ambassador for the NCTJ, in particular as a member of the public affairs board and a senior media law examiner. Sue received so many nominations I know she will be a popular choice for my award. “Inspiring, knowledgeable, supportive, invaluable, passionate and exemplary are some of the words frequently used to describe Sue. To quote one of her apprentices: She is a legend!” Sue began her career as a trainee in 1967 on the Cannock Advertiser and Courier, gaining her NCTJ qualification in 1971. She was a journalist at the Sunday Mercury, Coventry Telegraph Skills conference delegates discuss changes to the Diploma in and Birmingham Post and Mail, and became the first woman Journalism structure director of the Birmingham Press Club in 1975. Wolverhampton College employed Sue in 1998 where she taught reporting, The panel also spent time on the range of barriers that stop the media law and public affairs on NCTJ courses until the end media’s workforce from being diverse. The issues ranged from of 2013. unconscious and conscious bias and salaries and contracts, as Her retirement was put on hold when the BBC signed a deal well as how certain stories and reports can disenfranchise with Wolverhampton College to help them train 46 BBC local certain communities from wanting to apply to a particular radio apprentices. Five Express and Star apprentices also joined employer. the scheme with Sue at the helm. The final panel discussion was about what editors’ priorities are for the upcoming year. It was chaired by Joy Yates, group editor, Johnston Press and consisted of David Jennings, head of regional and local programmes, BBC Birmingham; Marc Reeves, editor-in-chief, Trinity Mirror Midlands and Jamie Summerfield, editor, A Little Bit of Stone. The editors agreed that they favoured “total flexibility and adaptability” in their trainee journalists and that this skill was vital to success. Before the conference closed Hannah Waldram, search and explore producer for Instagram, led a masterclass on the best way to involve social media and Instagram into journalists’ work. Hannah shared how journalists were using the platform to add and enhance their stories.

The 2015 Journalism Skills Conference hosted by the BBC Academy in Birmingham

20 Kim Fletcher, chairman of the NCTJ, accepted a cheque for £100,000 from Alex Bannister, board member of NLA media access

Celebratory reception Journalism To mark the continued success of the fund, a special reception was hosted by the London Evening Standard and The Diversity Fund Independent at Northcliffe House in London on 22 September. To date, the Journalism Diversity Fund has helped The annual celebratory lunch was attended by 70 leading 217 people pursue a career in journalism as a result of journalists, editors and industry professionals alongside sponsorship. Current sponsors include NLA media access, 2015/16 and 2016/17 bursary recipients. Associated Newspapers, Pearson, Press Association, Sky The annual event is a chance for fund supporters to meet those and Thomson Reuters. These companies are increasing receiving the bursaries while giving recipients a chance to diversity in UK newsrooms by funding socially and network with journalism industry professionals. Doug Wills, ethnically diverse students on NCTJ-accredited courses. managing editor of the London Evening Standard and The Applicants must demonstrate their diversity, as well as their Independent, welcomed guests and Kim Fletcher, chairman of determination, commitment and potential to succeed in the the NCTJ accepted a cheque for £100,000 from Alex Bannister, profession. They must not have the financial means to study NCTJ group managing editor, Associated Newspapers bringing the training courses at universities, colleges or private training organisation’s total contribution to £1.1 million. providers. JDF recipients Gemma Stevenson and Shruti Sheth told guests The Journalism Diversity Fund celebrated continued success in how the diversity fund had helped them while addressing 2016 as 2015/16 bursary recipients started new journalism guests at the reception. They attested to the quality of the careers across the country. training received as well as the importance of the Journalism Diversity Fund’s support during their studies. The 2015/2016 academic year saw 77% of bursary recipients in employment. In 2015/16, £163,971 was spent on supporting bursary Gemma Stevenson, diversity fund recipient: “Here I recipients. In the financial year ending June 2016, it is forecast am having gone full circle, from the nine-year-old that £1,296,038 will have been spent on the fund since it began. girl, who had her first piece of writing published on Three out of four cohorts have been completed for the 2016/2017 the BBC Newsround page to now a 30-year-old woman working in the BBC newsroom full time. academic year. A total of 51 people applied for a bursary, 26 were invited for interview and 17 were awarded a bursary. “I firmly believe it would have been a lot harder to achieve this without the support of the NCTJ, the Read Family and all of the other supporters I have had in my corner this year.”

21 The Thomas Read bursary The award is a financial contribution to the total Journalism Diversity Fund bursary, as well as a work placement at Sky Set up by the Read family in honour of their son and brother, Sports News. Thomas, the Thomas Read bursary is a partnership with the Journalism Diversity Fund to award £5,000 to bursary recipients The Claire Prosser bursary who demonstrate the qualities embodied by Thomas: a passion for journalism, a determination to succeed and the ability to overcome The very first Claire Prosser bursary award was presented as part adversity. of the Journalism Diversity Fund’s annual reception. The award honours Claire Prosser, a diversity champion, who unfortunately Thomas, who had cerebral palsy, studied postgraduate journalism passed away in 2014 following heart surgery. Her husband and at Cardiff University and then, after completing work experience at daughter, Paul and Ellen Clabburn, established the bursary in her Sky Sports News, joined them as a full-time sports journalist on the memory. The inaugural winner is Katie Boyd, 34, who will begin bulletin team. studying her MA Journalism at Ulster University this September. This year, two bursaries were awarded following the significant Alongside a financial contribution of £5,000, the award also success of the Read family’s fundraising. Josh Kitto, studying at includes work placements with BBC News, Press Association and News Associates, and Sophie Morris, studying at Press Association, independent production company, WireFree Productions. received bursaries presented by Andy Cairns, executive editor, Sky Sports News at this year’s reception.

Josh Kitto, left, and Sophie Morris, right, receive the Thomas Ellen, left, and Paul Clabburn, right, present Katie Boyd, Read bursary awards presented by Andy Cairns, center centre, with the Claire Prosser bursary award

2015-2016 recipients: where are they now?

Beth Baldwin is currently a trainee Alex Howell has always had an interest in journalist at the North West Evening Mail. sports and is aspiring to a career in Beth applied to the Journalism Diversity broadcast journalism. Currently Alex is a Fund three times before she was video journalist for Fieldsport TV and has successful and is ecstatic that she is now covered events across Europe. able to live out her dream career. Alex gained work experience during his placement at The Beth has previously worked abroad teaching English and Argus where he wrote about life in Redhill and Reigate. has done work placements at the Newcastle Chronicle and online magazine At the Grapevine. Course: Fast track course Centre: Brighton Journalists Work Course: Fast track course Centre: Press Association Training Newcastle Eve Langford developed her writing style by volunteering for the British Athletics Stephanie Finnegan is a journalist for Supporters Club as a feature writer and news agency SWNS. Stephanie has always subeditor for their magazine. Since achieving had a passion for the news and has her diploma Eve is now a digital content previously freelanced for the North Belfast producer for British Cycling. News and had placements at UTV, ni4kids and Podium. Course: Sports journalism multimedia diploma Centre: News Associates Manchester Course: Journalism MA Centre: University of Sunderland

22 Careers, distance learning and publications

Careers information seven NCTJ alumni to promote the diploma training scheme and the different routes into journalism. The videos featured profiles The NCTJ partnered with Press from senior journalists including Alex Crawford, Brian Flynn and Gazette for the third year in a Helen Skelton. row to produce a journalism The Twitter campaign was well-received and was followed up training guide. The 32-page with a journalism careers blog by the NCTJ on the National guide includes tips from top Careers Week website. journalists (including NCTJ alumnus and former Guardian Research editor-in-chief Alan Rusbridger), advice on getting a job in the The NCTJ has published research about the freelance journalist industry and a full list of NCTJ- labour market. The number of self-employed journalists has risen accredited courses. It also provides an overview of the NCTJ sharply, and this research explores the reasons behind that rise, journalism training routes, with an introduction to the various who is freelancing, and the nature of the work self-employed accredited-course options, apprenticeships and the Journalism journalists are undertaking. A particular focus in the research is Diversity Fund. on the skills and qualifications that freelance journalists hold and the learning activities they have undertaken to address skills Print copies of the training supplement have been sent to the gaps. The research discusses the skills that freelance journalists careers libraries of every sixth form and university in the UK – need, both when starting out in self-employment and on an nearly 4,000 in total – and a further 700 have been requested by ongoing basis in an ever-changing freelance market. schools. A digital version is also available on Gazette website and the NCTJ website. Website The guide is also handed out at the careers fairs the NCTJ attends, such as the London Graduate Fair at the University of The NCTJ worked with Granite5 to publish its new website in London, and the Uttlesford Schools’ Careers Fair at Saffron August 2016. The new design improves accessibility for mobile Walden County High School, which is part of our commitment to and tablet users. The site’s backend also features more tools that support our local community. allow the site to have broad, widescreen parallax images, stacked image lists and dropdown text boxes. These new features assist National Careers Week in promoting short courses and events as well as highlighting important parts of the site. Seven short promotional videos were released on Twitter to mark National Careers Week (7-11 March). The videos highlighted

23 Women in sport – levelling the playing field Delegates heard from guest speaker Sir Alan Moses, IPSO chairman, who gave his emphatic support for the book. During his In March 2016, the NCTJ and Sky Sports News teamed up to speech, Sir Alan lauded the book for its excellent coverage of press produce a video that encourages more women to pursue a career regulation and IPSO, congratulating them on “dispelling ignorance in sports journalism. The video features contributions from and misinformation.” successful sports journalists working for Sky Sports News, BBC Radio 4, the Daily Mail and the Irish Post. It highlights the roles The event, supported by Oxford University Press, marked the available to women sports journalists and the contribution that release of the book often referred to as the media industry’s women can make to sports stories. The journalists featured in the “bible”. Guests included regional and national press, broadcasters, video agreed that it is not as unusual to see women talking and journalism trainers and the family of the late Leonard McNae, the writing about sport, and that employers are addressing the original author. traditional gender imbalance. They encouraged women with a passion for sports journalism to ‘push themselves forward’ and seize the opportunities that are available to them.

McNae’s Essential Law for Journalists “It is not possible to conceive of The 23rd edition of McNae’s Essential Law for Journalists was anyone who wants to be taken launched as part of a celebratory reception at News UK in June. The book, written by Mike Dodd and Mark Hanna, is an invaluable seriously as a journalist or as an guide for both journalism students and practicing journalists. editor, without McNae’s 23rd edition well-thumbed and inwardly digested in his or her knapsack. If you leave it behind, if you ignore it, you do so not only at your own peril, but at the peril of all those who fight for and believe in an untamed, unruly and free press.” Sir Alan Moses, IPSO chairman

Distance learning The NCTJ distance learning programmes continue to succeed following last year’s addition of the new qualification, the Certificate in Foundation Journalism. The foundation certificate provides an introduction to journalism. It may be used as a first step for those considering a career in journalism or by those with an interest in learning more about journalism. Distance learners have the opportunity to study individual units or the full qualification, which is made up of a minimum of 13 credits and includes mandatory and optional units. The first certificate graduates were celebrated in August after just two marking sessions passed. The Diploma in Journalism by distance learning has continued to grow in popularity, with 161 people registering on the programme between July 2015 and June 2016. The distance learning programme is being updated to reflect the new qualification structure. Distance learning, either through the certificate or diploma programmes, remains popular for those looking to re-join the workforce, school leavers and career changers.

24 Short courses Our courses The short course programme is designed to help Why does the NCTJ offer short courses? journalists across the UK and internationally, or anyone who wants to acquire journalistic skills. One of the NCTJ’s 2016-17 strategic objectives is to “ensure there are effective products and services for all journalists at all These courses can be taught either as in-house courses stages of their careers and foster a culture of continuing or at the NCTJ’s offices in Newport, Essex. Details about professional development for journalists”. That objective was one the courses and timings can be found on our website: of the main driving forces behind the short course programme in Beginners in PR 2015-16, and it will remain so going forward. Broadcast and crisis media With ongoing rapid change occurring in the journalism industry, the NCTJ is working to keep abreast of trends and identify Crisis management training needs as a result of those trends. We do this by speaking Digital journalism curation to working journalists, researching online on an ongoing basis, Grammar and proof-reading skills and observing and experiencing those needs first-hand in the newsroom. Improving editorial products – an interactive training day Such courses as mobile journalism, social media: keeping it legal Interviewing skills and ethical, and digital curation have proven popular because Journalism to PR they meet professionals’ needs to acquire these new skills. We will continue to work to recognise these needs as they become Mobile journalism evident, and provide training accordingly. News and feature writing In short, we want to provide working journalists, educators and Secrets of the newsroom: Pitching successfully those who want to acquire journalistic skills with the tools and to the media knowledge to do their jobs to the best of their abilities. We also strive to provide relevant courses for those who need to apply Sharpening your press releases and PR skills journalistic skills in other fields. Social media – an introduction Social media: keeping it legal and ethical What we offer The essentials of media law In addition to ongoing new one-day courses, our original core skills courses such as grammar and proofreading and the The essentials of sub-editing essentials of media law continue to be popular, because The new editor foundation skills are always at the heart of what the NCTJ does. Video and audio reporting for the web We successfully ran a graduate training scheme for magazine journalists at Mark Allen Group in London, and this continues in Writing for the web 2016-17. We were also pleased to have run a well-attended digital skills seminar in partnership with Google, and we will continue to work with Google to provide new tools and skills for our stakeholders. We run National Qualification in Journalism (NQJ) refreshers, and Diploma in Journalism refreshers in advance of national exam dates twice a year. The NCTJ also organises in-house bespoke training for businesses in both the UK and abroad. Course leaders teach journalistic skills to delegates so that they can apply them within their own sector. Each trainer is an experienced journalist who delivers a bespoke programme for the client. In the past year, clients have come from the media, health care, transportation, charity and academic sectors. Delegates learn digital skills at the NCTJ and Google News Lab seminar

25 Business and finance review Resources

The net incoming resources of the group amounted to Investment powers, policy and performance £31,049 (2015: £135,725). After the deduction of net Under the memorandum and articles of association, the NCTJ realised and unrealised losses on investments of £14,392, has the power to make investments in such securities, property (2015: gain £37,842) there was a total increase of funds and other investments as the directors see fit. The charity’s amounting to £16,657 (2015: £173,567). There was, portfolio is invested with the advice of Investec Wealth and exclusive of the Journalism Diversity Fund, a trading Investment and the directors are satisfied with its overall surplus of £33,757 decreased by revaluations on performance. investments to £19,365 (2015: £120,773). The charity is an established and robust organisation with a Reserves well-known brand in the industry that enjoys high penetration. It is the aim of the directors to generate surpluses sufficient to It is financially secure with sound revenue streams offering a maintain a level of resources which, in the opinion of the board, range of products and services. The media industry is is commensurate with the identified needs of NCTJ. Directors undergoing significant change and the business direction of the will continue to monitor the future allocation of investments in charity reflects that. In line with media convergence and digital line with the charity’s reserves policy and development strategy. developments, the charity is a multimedia organisation, and The policy is to maintain a minimum level of funds that would stakeholders come from all media sectors. allow time for re-organisation and restructure in the event of a downturn in income, protect ongoing strategic work and allow The charity continues to invest in the development of a broad the charity to fulfil its objectives and commitments. range of products and services for all journalists and media organisations. A long-term commitment has been made to The principal income sources are: donations from per capita foster a culture of continuing professional development for members; income from registrations; apprenticeships and journalists to ensure there is public confidence in journalism examination fees; sales of publications and training materials; standards and ethics. events and training courses; accreditation fees; donations to the Journalism Diversity Fund; sponsorship; and investment The directors consider the financial state of affairs of the charity income. to be satisfactory and remain focussed on the need to manage expenditure appropriately and in line with its charitable objectives. Risk management The directors continually assess the major risks to which the The Journalism Diversity Fund, an industry charitable fund, is organisation is exposed to through its risk management managed and administered by the NCTJ as a restricted fund. process, in particular those related to the operations and Donations totalling £156,633, were received from NLA media finances of the charity, including compliance with the access, BskyB, Daily Mail and General Trust, Press Association, regulators’ conditions of recognition for awarding organisations. and Thomson Reuters, along with a private donations of funds The directors are satisfied that robust systems and procedures raised by the Thomas Read and Claire Prosser families (2015: are in place to mitigate these risks. £141,261). Expenditure from the fund amounted to £163,971 (2015: £88,604).

26 Structure and governance New directors are recommended and appointed by the directors. The number of directors is not subject to any maximum but is not The National Council for the Training of Journalists is a registered less than three. A director’s term of office is normally for at least charity. The training activities of the group are carried out by NCTJ three years and period up to nine years. Thereafter the term of Training Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary. In common with all office of individual directors will be and may be charities, the NCTJ exists to help create a better society. The extended further by the directors if it is in the interests of the principal objective of the charity is the provision, supervision and charity. accreditation of journalism-related training. The directors have the ultimate responsibility for running the Charitable contribution charity and exercising all the powers of the council, and in During the year NCTJ Training Ltd made a charitable donation particular, for its property, finances, strategy and accountability. under deed of covenant of £86,702 (2015: £138,611) to its They provide external independent guidance, advice and oversight holding company, The National Council for the Training of of the direction of the charity. Journalists, a registered charity (No: 1026685).

Statement of accounts 2015-16 2014-15 Incoming resources £1,134,017 £1,161,243 Expenditure £1,102,968 £1,025,518 Operating surplus/(deficit) for the year £31,049 £135,725 Consisting of: Restricted fund surplus/deficit (£2,708) £52,794 Trading deficit/surplus £33,757 £82,931 Balance Sheet as at 30 June 2016 Tangible fixed assets £452,163 £463,590 Investments £590,542 £604,935 Current assets £753,882 £695,007 Current liabilities £185,169 £168,771 Net current assets £568,713 £526,236 Net assets £1,611,418 £1,594,761

Notes 1.This financial information does not constitute statutory accounts within the meaning of Section 394 of the Companies Act 2006 2.Copies of the full statutory accounts are available on request

27 Who we are

NCTJ board of directors Journalism qualifications board

CHAIRMAN: Kim Fletcher, partner, Brunswick Group CHAIRMAN: Neil White, former editor-in-chief, Derby Telegraph VICE-CHAIRMAN: Brien Beharrell, former editorial director, Media Group Newbury News Group Amanda Ball, NCTJ principal examiner Laura Adams editorial director, Archant London Joyce Bishop, chief examiner, reporting and essential journalism Abu Bundu-Kamara, group diversity & inclusion specialist, Karen Ballam, chief examiner, shorthand and further education BAE Systems representative Andy Cairns, executive editor, Sky Sports News John Dilley, chief examiner, production journalism Andy Martin, editor, Bournemouth Daily Echo Mark Hanna, chief examiner, media law Donald Martin, head of publishing, consumer magazines, Catherine Houlihan, chief examiner, broadcast journalism DC Thomson Helen Hutchinson, chief examiner, videojournalism for online Roz McKenzie, course leader, UCFB Janet Jones, chief examiner, public affairs Stephen Mitchell, former deputy director, BBC News Dave King, chief examiner, sports journalism Alison Moore, director of finance and company secretary, Steve Nelson, chief examiner, NQJ NLA media access Steve Phillips, chief examiner, press photography and Colm Murphy, head of media, film and journalism school, Ulster photojournalism University David Rowell, industry representative David Rowell, former head of editorial learning and development, Mark Wray, head of the BBC College of Journalism Johnston Press Joanne Butcher, chief executive John Ryley, head of Sky News Lyn Jones, head of qualifications Neil White, former editor-in-chief, Derby Telegraph Media Group (resigned 24 June 2016) Quality assurance and standards committee Russell Whitehair, solicitor director, Mediaforce Group CHAIRMAN: Sean Dooley Joanne Butcher, chief executive Amanda Ball, NCTJ principal examiner Chris Dunham, company secretary Mike Dixon, City of Wolverhampton College Barry Hunt, Archant NCTJ staff Joanne Butcher, chief executive Jan Alder, PA to chief executive Lyn Jones, head of qualifications Kim Aitchison, examinations administrator Jeanne Stacey, quality and assessment manager Joanne Butcher, chief executive John Cary, head of accreditation Accreditation board Melissa Davis, examinations controller CHAIRMAN: Andy Cairns, executive editor, Sky Sports News Chris Dunham, head of finance and IT managing director at Clipstorm/SmartVideo Kimberley Holland, events and distance learning officer Paul Connolly, tutor and consultant News Associates London Lyn Jones, head of qualifications Graham Dudman, Alison Puttock, senior administrator Will Gore, deputy managing editor, The Independent & Jeanne Stacey, quality and assessment manager London Evening Standard Andy Summers, examinations controller Sue Green, City of Wolverhampton College Benjy Wilson, marketing and communications executive David Holmes, lecturer in journalism, University of Sheffield Steve Nelson, editorial training, Newsquest NCTJ consultants Ian Reeves, director of learning and teaching, University of Kent Michelle Lewis, short courses and marketing Michelle Stanistreet, general secretary, National Union of Journalists Mark Spilsbury, research Chas Watkin, editor, You and Yours, BBC Paul Watson, editorial Joy Yates, editorial director, Johnston Press North East

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