So, you want to be a journalist?
We know first-hand how tricky it is to navigate today’s world of journalism when you’re starting out. From an oversaturated social media newscape to misinformation and impartiality rows, the ways in which we consume and broadcast news seem to be ever-changing. It can be hard to know where to begin, let alone figure out how to forge a career and find your niche.
Luckily, there are lots of organisations that can help you out.
PressPad
You’re starting off in the right place, already! PressPad is a social enterprise aiming to diversify and regain trust within the British media industry. For those starting out, PressPad also pairs people with mentors who have a spare room in London and other big cities for internships. We also have dozens of Masterclasses and Q&As on our Youtube channel and Instagram page.
Journo Resources
Journo Resources is your one-stop-shop for all things journalism advice. From listicles, a jobs board, advice on freelancing (how much should you charge?) to advice on how to prepare for interviews or put your best foot forward for graduate scheme, Journo Resources is your big sister, answering questions that you might be afraid to ask.
Freelancing for Journalists
Freelancing for Journalists was founded by Lily Canter and Emma Wilkinson. It is a lively Facebook community, a must-listen podcast, an insightful newsletter, but also a book, a series of ebooks and webinars. Everything to help you, really.
National Union of Journalists
The National Union of Journalists operates both nationally and has regional branches (such as Cardiff and Bristol). The union represents and speaks for a collective of journalists (freelance, in-house, social media) from all over the UK and Ireland and fights for issues such as better pay, diversity and a commitment to local journalism.
You can join The National Union of Journalists as an early-career or student journalist to access training opportunities and national networking events, as well as local press meet ups.
National Council for the Training of Journalists
The National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ) is an industry charity and is one of the most important journalism organisations in the UK. They offer a flagship journalism skills conference, a diversity fund and apprenticeships for early career journalists. Furthermore, the NCTJ offers industry standard qualifications for pre and trainee journalists, which are highly regarded in the industry. Traineeships and apprenticeships often involve studying for an NCTJ qualification as part of their programme.
The Centre for Investigative Journalism
A great organisation to check out especially if you want to be an investigative journalist. The Centre for Investigative Journalism is an organisation covering all things investigative journalism, offering both scheduled and bespoke training courses, events, masterclasses and bursaries. They host a yearly Summer Conference focusing solely on investigative journalism skills, such as demons and hands-on masterclasses.
The John Schofield Trust
The John Schofield Trust aims to improve social mobility and diversity within the journalism industry with their flagship and highly coveted yearly mentorship programme, supporting early career, apprenticeship and undergraduate journalists from underrepresented backgrounds.
Society of Professional Journalists
Founded in 1909, the Society of Professional Journalists advocates for the practice of journalism with high ethical standards. They also offer regular training programmes for young and early career journalists.
The Taylor Bennett Foundation
The Taylor Bennett Foundation, in partnership with the University of East London, is a charity that encourages Black, Asian and ethnic graduates to pursue a career in communications through their flagship PR training, internship and mentorship programmes.
Screenskills
For aspiring TV Journalists, Screenskills offers a myriad of learning, apprenticeship, mentoring, bursaries and training opportunities, so you can learn how to deliver world-class bulletins and improve your on-screen skills.
The Orwell Foundation
The Orwell Foundation honours the legacy of George Orwell’s political writing in a commitment to journalism. They run a number of Journalism Prizes, such as The Orwell Young Journalism Award, in association with the NUJ.
Are we missing an organisation? Tell us by emailing content@presspad.co.uk with the name of the article as a subject line.
Credit: Canva Pro image collage by PressPad
