Examiners and volunteers
We work closely with individuals with journalistic backgrounds who examine our qualifications and take part in a range of volunteer opportunities.
The NCTJ works closely with journalism employers to ensure its education and training system develops current and future journalists for the demands of a fast-changing media industry.
There are a number of ways you can work with us and benefit from NCTJ qualifications and training programmes, from taking on apprentices to registering trainees for the NQJ.
Taking on apprentices
Apprenticeships can help media companies by offering access to fresh raw talent. Apprenticeships ensure that your workforce has the practical skills and qualifications your organisation needs now and in the future.
The combination of on and off the job learning ensure they learn the skills that work best for your company. By employing an apprentice, you will have an opportunity to diversify your workforce to help reflect the communities they serve.
There are two apprenticeship standards available, for both journalists (delivering the Diploma in Journalism) and senior journalists (delivering the NQJ). Find out more.
Click here for information on costs, and details on employer incentive payments and grants that may be available.
Employers must provide an apprentice with an induction into their new role and provide on-the-job training.
Employers must produce an apprenticeship agreement, which is a contract of service between the employer and the apprentice. This agreement is a condition for completing an apprenticeship and without it an apprenticeship certificate cannot be issued.
You can take on as many apprentices as you want to. If you are interested in employing an apprentice, talk to your local training provider.
Taking on trainees
Many employers want to put their new trainees through their National Qualification in Journalism (NQJ) training so that they can qualify as a senior reporter.
There is flexibility for candidates and employers to choose a pathway relevant to their skills and the area of the media they’re working in.
Trainees must be registered with NCTJ in order to be eligible to sit the NQJ. They do not need to have all of their Diploma in Journalism exams before being registered.
Training towards the NQJ is now also available by distance learning and further information is available here.
Shorthand exams
Employers that are approved exam centres can schedule NCTJ shorthand exams to take place in-centre. Click here to find out more and book a shorthand exam.
For further information on how you can work with us as an employer as a consultant, please get in touch with Lyn Jones, head of qualifications.
