Short Course

The Short Course offers a focused version of our full programme, where students write four articles between January and April for a real online audience.

Whether or not they’re pursuing a career in journalism, this course provides a unique chance to write for a real newspaper, gaining hands-on experience in the media industry. Throughout the four months, students collaborate closely with industry professionals, hone their writing skills, and see their work published. It’s an exciting opportunity to build a portfolio, develop their creative voice, and gain firsthand insight into news reporting.

Having work published with Newsquest Media Group, one of the largest newspaper distributors in the UK, makes this experience an impressive addition to any CV or UCAS application.

How does it work?

The course runs from January through to April
Open to school years 10 to 13
Students are treated as if they are real journalists with deadlines
Every article is published
An introductory lecture is given at the start of the course explaining defamation and safety guidelines
Ideas are given for students to find stories
Freedom to write what is important to them
A letter of recognition is granted to each student who meets the deadlines
Short Course Star Award at the end of the course, which is a national competition where one student will be crowned this year’s winner. Students must have met the deadlines to be eligible to enter

Costs

There are minimal costs involved for taking part in the Young Reporter Short Course and these are purely to cover the running costs, as the scheme is completely self-funding. Students must sign up through their school and we cannot take on students independently.

Administration fee from the school: £125 plus VAT

Fee per student: £20 plus VAT

Registration for the 2025 intake will remain open until Friday 31 January 2025, where schools can sign up to take part. If you have any questions in the meantime, please email info@youngreporter.co.uk