Student Council representatives share views with NCTJ directors

Three students joined NCTJ directors at their board meeting in London on Thursday, 7 June, to share their views about their training and qualifications.

Three students joined NCTJ directors at their board meeting in London on Thursday, 7 June, to share their views about their training and qualifications.

Harriet Brace from Glasgow Caledonian University, Tom Edwards from Lambeth College and Hannah Mark from Belfast Metropolitan College were nominated by other representatives at this year’s Student Council meeting in MediaCity, Salford in February.

The students discussed topics including: the teaching of ethics; the timing of exams at different centres; exam fees and re-sits; and shorthand exams. They also put forward a number of suggestions including providing more training in social media and showcasing students’ work on the NCTJ website.

They thought the accreditation standard was good as it makes courses challenging and liked the emphasis on practical skills as they can be transferred into real life. They also appreciated the work the NCTJ has put into student communications and the student log-in area.

Harriet Brace, who is about to finish her course and already has a trainee position at the Carrick Gazette, said: “I was really pleased to be selected to attend the NCTJ board meeting; I think it’s a great opportunity for students to provide feedback and suggestions direct to the decision-makers, and to do some serious networking!”

The NCTJ shared the full exams calendar that centres can choose from and explained the exacting process of marking exam papers and appeals. The NCTJ is developing its website and blogs to include posts from students.

The Student Council was set up in 2008 to ensure there is a direct link between students and the NCTJ and attending this meeting makes sure the voices of those on NCTJ-accredited courses are heard by the board.

For more information about the Student Council visit www.nctj.com/accredited/student-council.

Keep in touch

Sign up to receive the NCTJ’s eJournalism newsletter. Sent once a month, it will keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in journalism training.