Training chiefs have raised concerns about the low number of female journalists studying sports reporting.

The National Council for the Training of Journalists is aiming to raise awareness of the issue as it prepares to mark International Women’s Day next Wednesday.

In 2021, only 7pc of those registering for NCTJ-accredited sports journalism courses were women, although this increased to 14pc in 2022.

However, the organisation has warned this is “still a long way” from its 25pc target.

NCTJ chief executive Joanne Butcher, pictured, said: “Equality among sports journalists has greatly improved but there is more to be done and we remain concerned about the low number of women choosing to study sport.

“We are delighted to be hosting this session which we hope will raise awareness of an ongoing issue and will inspire more female journalists to pursue a career in sport.

“Our panellists understand first-hand how important it is to have female representation in sports journalism and will share their own experiences and answer questions from the attendees.”

The issue will form the basis of a virtual lunchtime discussion session on Wednesday featuring a panel of sports journalists from across the industry.

Sports reporter Sandra Brobbey from News UK, Ellen McCarthy, assistant producer at Sky Sports News and Frances Yeoman, programme leader in journalism from Liverpool John Moores University, will share their own experiences of succeeding in the sport sector while discussing some of the challenges for women and exploring solutions to encourage more women to study sports journalism.

Journalists from across the industry – including student journalists and course leaders – are invited to the session to be held via Zoom at 12.15pm on Wednesday, and interested parties can register here.

The NCTJ’s Journalism Skills Academy is also hosting a special ‘lunch and learn’ training session for aspiring female leaders.

The session, to be held on Friday 10 March, will focus on developing confidence and trusting instincts in a leadership role. More information is available here.