A behind the scenes guide to studying at News Associates: Society of Editors Conference

Our NCTJ journalism trainees got the unique opportunity to attend the Society of Editors Conference 2018 in Manchester.

journalism courses londonNETWORKING: (L-R) News Associates trainees Olivia, Julian and Marthe with McNae’s Essential Law for Journalists co-author Mike Dodd

This year the annual conference took place at the luxury Lowry Hotel and a number of our fast-track and undergraduate trainees spent time brushing shoulders with many leading figures from all sectors of the media.

The theme of the two days was ‘The Trust Factor – And How to Fund It’ – with debates focussing on the major issues facing  journalism in the 21st century.

STARS OF THE SHOW: (L-R) Trainees Adam, Tim, Lauren, Sam and Matt 

Here, New Associates Manchester fast-track trainees Olivia Baron and Julian Perreira recall their highlights of the visit. 

Olivia said: “It was a fantastic opportunity to network with successful journalists who were able to offer their professional and constructive advice as I work towards achieving my NCTJ qualification. 

“Listening to Paul Dacre’s speech was a great experience and enabled me to hear another perspective of the journalism industry. 

“Although he had slightly controversial views towards certain media outlets and the declining print industry.

“I found the event as whole very motivating and it has encouraged me to further my journalism career and I feel inspired to continue and develop within this profession.”

CHEESE: (L-R) Olivia, News Associates head of journalism training Manchester Andrew Greaves, Julian and Marthe with Evening Standard managing editor Doug Wills

Julian said: “I had a great time attending the editors conference, especially getting to speak with some of the best journalists in the country and listening to their inside knowledge into the industry was invaluable.

“Also having many of them tell us that shorthand is key to being an effective journalist has really spurred me on to achieve my 100wpm.

“The networking opportunities were amazing, I even managed to secure an interview for the following morning with the Daily Mail’s head of training.”

MINGLING: Trainees chatting to Newsquest Scotland editor-in-chief Donald Martin, media consultant Paul Connew and director of Essential PR Paul Horrocks

News Associates managing editor James Toney said: “In the last few weeks our trainees have enjoyed unrivalled networking opportunities at events organised by the London Press Club and our friends at the Society of Editors.

“No other journalism school attended so the chance to meet and speak with the most senior executives and editors in British media will hopefully give our trainees the advantage, especially as the window for various graduate journalism programmes now start to open.”

Read what else our trainees are getting up to by clicking here.

Apply for our fast-track, part-time and sports journalism courses by clicking here.