An annual awards scheme which aims to recognise the best student and trainee journalists from across the UK has opened for entries.

The National Council for the Training of Journalists has launched its Awards for Excellence to reward the best journalism students completing accredited courses and journalists or photographers with less than two years’ experience on the job.

There are five main categories each with an award for students and one for trainees – news journalism, sports journalism, top scoop/exclusive, features of the year and images of the year.

In addition, there is also the student publication of the year category across any platform, such as print, online and broadcast, which can be submitted by accredited course providers.

Nominations can also be submitted for the NCTJ Chairman’s Award which recognises an individual’s outstanding contribution to high standards of journalism training.

The deadline for entries is 13 September and for information on how to enter, click here.