Reaching for the Sky- success for former bursary winner

A former Journalism Diversity Fund recipient has been appointed as an editorial assistant to Sky Sports News.
Robert Payling began the post in July 2012 and is based at Sky Sports News in London. He is responsible for writing news scripts, researching stories and editing video content.

Before securing the new role, he completed a placement with the Sky Sports News graduate trainee scheme.

Robert was awarded a Journalism Diversity Fund bursary to study an MA in Print Journalism at the University of Sheffield in September 2010.

He said he could not have taken this first step without an NCTJ qualification and the help of the Journalism Diversity Fund: “The course helped me develop my news writing skills and equipped me with knowledge of media law, which is vital for any journalist working in a professional newsroom.

“The Journalism Diversity Fund gave me my lucky break and now I’m reaping the benefits in the best possible way.”

Robert is delighted to be starting a job with the company: “The Sky Sports News graduate trainee scheme provided me with the perfect introduction to a career in sports journalism.

“Graduates are given the opportunity to work within every area of the newsroom and develop a variety of skills that are vital when working on breaking sports news stories. The job can be very challenging at times, but also immensely rewarding.

“If you’re passionate about sports journalism then there is no better place to work.”

Sky is the first broadcaster to support the Journalism Diversity Fund. The company will be providing financial support to the fund, as well as in-kind backing through mentoring and work placements for bursary recipients.