What to expect – advice from former remote NCTJ journalism trainees

We know not everyone can drop everything and move to London to study journalism. That’s why we created our part-time remote journalism course, meaning budding journalists can gain their NCTJ qualification from anywhere in the world.

Read what some of our alumni say about our innovative remote course.

Jasmine Charles, The Times and The Sunday Times sub-editor

“The News Associates remote part-time NCTJ course was hands down the best option for me. When I left university I wanted to complete a journalism masters but was deterred by the sheer expense of having to study and live without a stable income. When I was offered to take this course, it made perfect sense, because I could achieve a qualification in journalism that all newsrooms desire and have a full-time job at the same time. Yes, doing both is sometimes hard, but with hard work and incredible support from the tutors at News Associates, the course feels totally achievable and with as little stress as possible. The tutors teach the modules in small, manageable chunks, are on call throughout the week to answer any questions you have, and give plenty of notice about upcoming exams and hefty deadlines. I would recommend to anyone looking to get into journalism or gain new skills, and wanting to do it in a more affordable way.”

Phil Campbell, Sportsbeat multimedia content producer

“My number one piece of advice to anyone on the remote course would be to keep things ticking over, whether that be media law revision or writing stories for your portfolio. Don’t leave it all last minute! It is easy to think 18 months is a long time but exams and deadlines come round quicker than you think! So by keeping on top of things, your workload will always seem manageable. Also, throw yourself into the course as much as you can. You’re being taught by some of the best tutors out there so ask them questions and pick their brains. They’re only ever an email away. And learning through work placements too is massively important. Be prepared to put yourself out there and sometimes work for free. It may seem daunting but it gives you the opportunity to stand out!”

Yennah Smart, The Times data journalist

“The remote part-time NCTJ course covers all the essential skills needed to become a journalist whilst also broadening your skills and exposing you to different mediums that you might not have tried before. Eighteen months sounds daunting but one of the major benefits of the extra time is that you can really engage with each module and apply your knowledge to what’s happening in the world. The tutors are fantastic and make themselves available to you via email or phone call so you always feel connected and supported despite not being in a physical classroom.”

Rob Thornton, freelance sports presenter and journalist

“I loved my time on the News Associates remote part-time journalism course – I initially thought 18 months was going to be a long time, but it flew by! The course offers the perfect blend of learning alongside being able to work and get real-world experience in the industry. I’d worked in the sports industry for six years before deciding to train as a journalist, and once I started I couldn’t believe how many colleagues and people I worked alongside had also trained at News Associates! The tutors are brilliant and no question is ever too much for them, plus they give some amazing career advice too! I’d recommend grabbing every opportunity with both hands whilst training – as you don’t get opportunities like this anywhere else.”

Got a question about our part-time journalism courses? Contact us on training@newsassociates.co.uk or 0203 026 3781.

Sign up for a free journalism workshop here.

Apply for our remote part-time journalism course here.