Podcasting is set to be recognised for the first time at an annual awards scheme for trainee and student journalists.

The National Council for the Training of Journalists has launched its annual Awards for Excellence, which are now open for entries.

All shortlisted entrants will be invited to the prestigious gala dinner and award ceremony, which will take place in early 2021.

The ceremony is usually held as part of the Journalism Skils Conference, which normally takes place in November,  but the NCTJ says has yet to make a decision on when this year’s conference will be held and has not ruled out having a separate event for the awards.

As part of the awards, a new podcast journalism prize will identify the best student and trainee podcasts which get to the heart of the issue and are well produced.

Judges will consider a range of elements, including the style of delivery, human interest potential, originality and evidence of in-depth interview techniques.

The awards, which are free to enter, also offer news journalism, sports journalism, top scoop and features categories.

The deadline for entries is Friday 13 November at 5pm, and further details can be found here.

The winners at last year’s awards