The National Council for the Training of Journalists helps thousands of ‘wannabe’ reporters to the job of their dreams. But where do you start?
NCTJ training director Sally Mellis writes…

There are exciting career prospects and job satisfaction in journalism, the chance to meet people and report the full range of human experience.

So, how to start?

One of the best ways to become a professional is to complete a pre-employment training course designed by the National Council for the Training of Journalists to meet the industry’s requirements.

Courses for newspaper reporters are held at universities and colleges throughout the country. You will need at least five GCSE passes (A-C) including English; most colleges require two A-level passes. Applicants with Scottish educational qualifications must possess at least five standard grades (levels 1-3) in different subjects, including English. Some colleges may also require three Scottish Highers.

Courses for magazine reporters are held at Brighton, Harlow and Liverpool Community colleges.

The course for press photographers/photo-journalists is held only at Sheffield College (academic year). You will need four GCSE passes and one A-level.

All course applications will be subject to a written test and interview.

Write for full information and an application form (enclosing a large, stamped, addressed envelope) to: NCTJ Training Ltd, The New Granary, Station Road, Newport, Saffron Walden, CB11 3PL.

You can telephone 01799 544014 or take a look at our web site: www.nctj.com.

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