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June 2007 News

Feature Writing, A Practical Introduction

All the tips of the trade and key advice for aspiring feature writers keen to make their mark

Student journalist's report makes splash for Evening Post

University newspaper story gets wider audience thanks to newsdesk contacts

Exam first for springtime journalism candidates

Changes to NCE put more emphasis on note-taking and accuracy

Journalism trainer offers pay-as-you-go shorthand

Walk-in classes offer Teeline tuition from basic theory to 120 words per minute

Regional papers team up with Sky to find future journalism talent

Budding reporters could see their work published in their local paper

Guernsey Press launches journalism diploma

New in-house scheme will help Island publisher grow its own talent

Careers in gear as trainees get on the road to success

Students publish their own magazine financed by advertising

Shorthand speed success for 37 students

Eleven certificates for 100 per cent accuracy at 100wpm are handed out

Privacy, morality and the reputation of the press

Society of Editors chief on why journalists should always think twice

Journalism degree students get low-down on editors' Code of Practice

“When you’ve got it wrong, put it right,” advises former editor

New appointments for NCTJ

Training body’s diversity and communications work is strengthened

Journalism hopefuls to get industry insight

Working journalists will offer advice on getting a foot in the door

Motoring journalism focus for Cardiff postgrads

Specialised work placements and guest lectures introduced for students with a passion for motoring

Fellowship offers chance to work on the Washington Post

Winner will spend three months on paper’s national desk

Student press awards are launched

Cash and work experience at The Herald are among the prizes up for grabs

Trainee/Senior Reporters x 7 Newsquest Various, closes 18 May
Local Democracy Reporters x 9 Newsquest Various, closes 18 May
Junior Media Officer NSPCC Birmingham, closes 11 May
BBC Local Democracy Reporter Clyde Weekly Press Glasgow/Clydebank, closes 4 May
Sub-editors The Daily Mail London, closes 16 May
Business Editor Nottingham Post Nottingham, closes 27 Apr
Account Executive/Account Manager Rhizome Media London, closes 27 Apr
Sports Reporter Sportsbeat Wimbledon, closes 26 Apr
Regional Business Editor Insider Media Limited Manchester, closes 30 Apr
Chief Reporter Clyde Weekly Press Glasgow, closes 2 May
Reporter Deadline News Edinburgh, closes 16 May
Local Democracy Reporters x 20 Johnston Press Various, closes 15 May
Senior/Trainee Reporters Johnston Press Various, closes 15 May
Trainee Reporter Newsquest Essex Basildon, closes 14 May
Senior Reporters Archant Suffolk Suffolk, closes 27 Apr
Features Editor Media Drum World Birmingham, closes 27 Apr
Digital Staff Writer Insider Media Manchester, closes 26 Apr
News Editor (Arabist) Online news agency London, closes 25 Apr

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Tips on choosing a journalism course

Emma Clark, former marketing and communications manager for the National Council for the Training of Journalists, offers her advice on choosing between journalism courses.
Recently I've attended numerous careers fairs around the country, meeting students of all ages keen to break into journalism - whether that be in newspapers, television, radio or magazines. And of course, all students want to know which journalism course they should go on and whether they need NCTJ qualifications.

A quick look at the trainee job ads on HTFP demonstrates the importance of gaining the NCTJ Diploma in Journalism. Many adverts require candidates to have, or be awaiting results for, their NCTJ Diploma.

Trying to break into the industry without it makes a tough task almost impossible. With the rise in tuition fees, choosing the right journalism course is even more important than ever and students need to be sure they are learning the vocational skills required by employers, enabling them to hit the ground running when they enter the newsroom.

Employers know that an NCTJ-trained applicant will be able to find and construct stories, understand media law and ethics and be able to take down an accurate shorthand note when required. And contrary to popular belief it is not just the regional press looking for these skills, but nationals, online and broadcast too. Recent Sky Sports News schemes, for example, have been looking for practical skills including a minimum of 100wpm shorthand.

Student journalists can complete their NCTJ training in a number of ways - FE colleges and independent centres offer the Diploma in Journalism as fast-track and academic year courses, while universities offer it as part of undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications. All of these journalism courses lead to the same NCTJ qualifications and meet the same standard, allowing students to pick the one that's best for them.

It's no secret that the NCTJ has an exacting standard, and this applies not just to the qualifications but also to the course provider. All NCTJ-accredited courses have to work incredibly hard to meet the requirements in the same way that students have to work incredibly hard to achieve the gold standard. This ensures the NCTJ logo acts as a meaningful kitemark for quality journalism training.