Up to 100 unemployed young people are set to receive a journalism qualification as part of a new paid placement scheme involving national news titles.

The National Council for the Training of Journalists has announced a new partnership with News UK and training provider News Associates which is designed to help young people break into the media.

The programme, run as part of the Government’s Kickstart Scheme, will offer six-month placements to 16 to 24-year-olds on Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment.

Recruits will get NCTJ Certificate of Foundation Journalism qualification with support from News Associates, on-the-job experience and training across News UK’s editorial and broadcast brands. The first 14 recruits began their training yesterday.

Joanne Butcher, pictured, chief executive of the NCTJ, said: “We are delighted to partner with News UK on this innovative scheme, which is helping to tackle inequality and break down the barriers of entering the industry.

“News Associates, which has run outstanding NCTJ-accredited courses for many years, is a brilliant choice of training provider.

“It is fantastic to see the first recruits start their paid placements today, and we wish them the best of luck as they work towards their Certificate in Foundation Journalism qualification.”

The first 14 interns will be working on a number of titles and stations.

Job titles include digital content assistant at Virgin Radio, broadcast assistant at Times Radio, podcast assistant at talkSPORT, Sun digital journalist and fashion assistant at Fabulous magazine.

Mark Hudson, Head of Early Talent at News UK, said: “You shouldn’t have to fight so hard to get a foot in the door in the media industry.

“Through this scheme, we’re blowing that door right off, and giving young people the tools, experience and confidence they need to land a job in journalism.”

Minister for Employment Mims Davies added: “It’s fantastic to see young people begin their Kickstart journey with News UK, working for some of the biggest names in the media industry and in a range of exciting roles with an NCTJ qualification at the end setting them on the road for their future careers.”