More disadvantaged teenagers are set to learn skills aimed at getting them to consider a career in journalism.

North West Regional College, in Northern Ireland, and City of Liverpool College are hosting courses for students aged 15 to 18 as part of a scheme by the National Council for the Training of Journalists.

The courses were announced by the NCTJ as part of a wider programme which is aimed at helping around 100 young people from disadvantaged backgrounds into journalism.

They include giving participants the chance to achieve a first unit of the NCTJ’s Certificate in Foundation Journalism.

NWRC journalism lecturer Seamus McKinney, pictured, said: “As well as learning new skills, students will have a lot of fun along the way.

“The course is perfect for both newcomers and those returning to learning.”

Participants on the course in Liverpool will hear from guest lecturer Charlotte Hadfield, senior reporter at the Liverpool Echo.

Course leader Joanna Lane said: “In journalism, our stories are only as strong as the voices telling them. We hope that this project will shape the future of journalism, right here in Liverpool.”

Will Gore, head of partnerships and projects at the NCTJ, added: “We’re really looking forward to seeing how the participants get on, and to some journalistic talent being unearthed.”

A fourth programme is due to be run by Glasgow Clyde College in early 2024, also as part of the NCTJ’s pilot Outreach Project.