An annual scheme that helps aspiring journalists develop their writing skills is set to launch again.
The Young Reporter Scheme has been running since 2008, and gives school children the opportunity to write for Newsquest’s myriad of online titles.
The scheme is open to students across Bolton in years 10 to 13, and provides the perfect springboard for those wishing to pursue a career in writing.
This year - for the first time - we are recruiting now to alleviate the frantic rush for teachers at the beginning of the busy autumn term.
It is an excellent opportunity for young people and all students need to enrol through their school to take advantage of this inimitable break into the world of journalism.
Running for eight months, from September each year, students are expected to write one article per month and all these articles are published online.
Jenny Greenland, from Tolworth Girls’ School in London who has worked with this programme over the years, said: “This scheme gives students real work experience, not just developing their writing skills and time management but giving them some amazing opportunities to review.”
Jo Zanetti, a teacher at Parmiter’s School in Watford, added: “Each year, the Young Reporter Scheme provides our students with an excellent opportunity to develop both their writing and analytical skills and also key employability skills such as communication, adaptability, problem-solving, time management and initiative.
“The students receive excellent support and all agree that taking part has helped them to engage with their local community, sharpen their writing skills and help them to prepare for the rigours of independent research and analysis required for A Level and university study.”
This programme believes that all students deserve a voice and therefore all are welcome, irrespective of their academic abilities.
Even if journalism is not the end plan, the scheme will help to broaden their horizons, take them out of their comfort zones and hone their writing skills.
If this sounds like it might be of interest to your school or someone you know spread the word or get in touch - info@youngreporter.co.uk, 0208 722 6378 or youngreporter.co.uk
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