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The National Council for the Training of Journalists administers the industry gold standard qualification for all aspiring reporters in the UK. To achieve NCTJ accreditation, each training centre agrees to adhere to a strict set of guidelines, to teach the industry syllabus and undergo regular inspections to ensure high standards.
KEY ELEMENT: Shorthand remains a key skill for any journalist and plays a major part in the NCTJ syllabus
There are more than 40 accredited centres across the UK, the majority of them universities or colleges of higher education, alongside a newer breed of flexible, single-focus commercial providers - and we’re proud to be part of the family.
The NCTJ continues to evolve under a dynamic young chief executive, leading the way in preparing young journalists while respecting the principles of those in the specialist periodicals and broadcast training sector.
Its main board includes current and recent national and regional newspaper editors - so it remains focussed on what the industry demands of its new entrants.
If you want a job as a newspaper reporter, be aware of an editor’s first question:
Have you got your NCTJ?
He or she almost certainly has, from a previous generation, and knows what it has taken in terms of commitment and sacrifice to reach that stage of application. Making that first connection is so critical, and, once through the editor’s door, you have the chance to impress with your results, your cuttings and your winning attitude.
The second question you’re likely to be asked is: Have you got your 100 words per minute shorthand?
There are plenty leaving journalism courses who haven’t but at News Associates it remains one of our priorities, alongside News Writing and Portfolio.
These are the three key elements of an NCTJ pre-entry course - the hard ones to get - and, frankly, who would want to hire a trainee who hadn’t proved him or herself in these most essential skills?
We are delighted to stride forward with the NCTJ, embracing new disciplines while never forgetting the core values, and we welcome the opportunity to take you with us.
For more information visit www.nctj.com