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Ex-regionals man turned lecturer to pen new book for trainee journalists

Former regional press journalist-turned-journalism lecturer Jon Smith is putting together a new book for trainee journalists.

The former Shields Gazette and Northern Echo journalist, who is now a senior lecturer at Darlington College, is compiling Essential Reporting, a practical guide to all that trainee reporters need to know and learn to work in a newsroom.

The book is being produced by the National Council for the Training of Journalists and has been designed as a sister title to the long established McNae’s Essential Law for Journalists.

It will include advice, tips and warnings from working journalists, a guide to NCTJ training and examinations, a glossary and a guide to further reading.

Jon said: “I’m delighted the NCTJ has decided to produce this book and flattered to be asked to collaborate in its creation.

“I hope it will guide and encourage the new generation of trainees, provide a useful foundation for trainers to build on, and reassure journalists generally that in a rapidly-changing media world the fundamental qualities, knowledge and skills required by reporters remain as important as ever.”

The book has been commissioned by Sage Publications and is due to be published in the autumn.

It will be the NCTJ’s recommended introductory text for all students on college and university courses.

Jon teaches journalism and media law at Darlington College and is responsible for all Newsquest editorial training to National Certificate level.

He is a member of the NCTJ Journalism Board and a senior NCTJ examiner, and has previously worked as a reporter, news editor, features editor, chief sub-editor and assistant editor on various newspapers including the Teesdale Mercury, the Shields Gazette and The Northern Echo.