Junior Journalist Apprentice
Junior Journalist Apprentice

Junior Journalist Apprentice

Birmingham Apprenticeship No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join our Birmingham newsroom as a Junior Journalist Apprentice, creating engaging news content daily.
  • Company: ITV is a leading broadcaster shaping culture and delivering trusted news to millions across the UK.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous holiday allowance, and opportunities for personal growth and development.
  • Why this job: Kickstart your journalism career in a dynamic environment where your ideas can make a real impact.
  • Qualifications: GCSEs in Maths and English (C/4 or above) plus 2 other subjects; 1 A Level (C or above).
  • Other info: No prior experience needed; we welcome diverse applicants from all backgrounds.

Office location: Birmingham

In order to progress your application any further you must be available for the following dates:

  • Assessment Centre: Wednesday 9th April 2025
  • Interview: 29th April

Early application is recommended for this role as we reserve the right to close it at any point if we receive a high volume of applications.

Duration: 18 month fixed term contract

Salary: £24,651

We’re looking for fresh talent! Are you a creative storyteller with a passion for regional news? Do you like the sound of working somewhere where each day is different? Do you want to get your foot in the door? If you’ve said yes to all of the above - this job might be just for you.

ITV News Central is looking for an enthusiastic individual who is keen to kick off their career in the world of Broadcast Journalism, working in our Birmingham newsroom. You don’t need any previous experience - our interest is in finding the right person. In fact, we welcome candidates without a degree to apply.

This is an entry-level position as part of a multi-skilled team and your day to day could involve:

  • Reacting to breaking news stories
  • Producing early, late and weekend bulletins
  • Planning stories
  • Creating online content

You will also have the chance to pitch story ideas of your own!

You will follow an Apprenticeship training programme for 18 months where you will learn how news and programmes are made, train to use our news media technology systems, work on live news production and immerse yourself in the exciting world of digital news output, including ITVX. Alongside your day to day role as a Production Journalist Apprentice in the newsroom, you will work towards your Level 5 Diploma in Journalism.

The Midlands is a richly diverse region and we’re looking for a person who will help ensure our coverage is as representative of the people and backgrounds of all those who live here as possible.

The successful candidate will be self-motivated, have a strong passion to work in Broadcast Journalism and the ability to work as a team player in a busy newsroom environment.

ITV is for everyone. ITV aims to remove barriers for people from all backgrounds. We recognise that a healthy newsroom and working environment is a diverse one. We are particularly keen to receive applications from people of colour, and deaf, disabled and neurodivergent people, and those from lower socio-economic groups, as we recognise that individuals from these groups are currently underrepresented in our industry.

Initially, candidates with successful applications will be invited to participate in an assessment day comprising both individual and group activities. Subsequently, those who are successful at the assessment centre will be invited to attend an individual interview. Reasonable adjustments as part of the interview process are considered whilst still ensuring that we are able to test a candidate's ability to operate in the specific environment of a newsroom. As part of our reasonable adjustments, we’re happy to discuss any support/personalisation you may need during our application and selection process. Please don’t hesitate to contact us at talkingcareers@itv.com with any queries around this.

Entry Criteria

For this apprenticeship, you need to have the below grades:

  • GCSE (or equivalent): Maths - Grade C/4 or above
  • English Language or Literature - Grade C/4 or above
  • Plus 2 other subjects - Grade C/4 or above
  • A Level (or equivalent): 1 A Level - Grade C or above

(please note if you apply with a qualification that is too similar to the apprenticeship, you will not be eligible for the position)

Your application will be assessed clearly as outlined on the application form.

Your work matters to millions. Shaping culture is in the DNA of ITV. So, it’s not surprising that you’ll find us in every home in the UK, our productions are famous all over the world and we’re at the forefront of the digital streaming revolution. When you join us, you enter a fun working environment with opportunities to learn, to grow and make a real difference. Small enough that your impact’s felt in the business, but big enough that your impact reaches millions of people. Come and develop your skills, change TV and the course of your career. Don’t just watch it. Be part of it. Join ITV.

Your impact sends ripples.

The Team

Our News team delivers high quality and trustworthy television and online coverage that regularly attracts audiences in excess of 3 million viewers. It’s a fast-moving environment with a huge variety of roles on offer and plenty of challenges. We operate in 11 main news production centres across England, Northern Ireland, Wales and the Channel Islands. We also have a Political Unit based in the heart of Westminster. And finally, we produce a range of current affairs & factual programming out of ITV Wales, UTV and ITV Border.

The role is based in our Birmingham newsroom, and the successful candidate will work on television and digital news production, from producing early, late and weekend bulletins and planning stories, to creating online content that enhances our reputation and engages our digital audience.

During the apprenticeship you will receive hands-on training in the following areas:

  • Producing high quality and compliant news bulletins
  • Writing stories and scripts that are accurate and engaging
  • Editing pictures using software provided
  • Creating accurate graphics using our template-based system
  • Curating digital content for our website, socials and ITVX
  • On the day News gathering and forward Planning
  • Generating original and creative ideas for on-screen and online
  • Researching stories ideas thoroughly and creatively
  • Ofcom code, media law and compliance.

Skills you’ll need (minimum criteria)

  • A passion for news and current affairs, particularly across the East and West Midlands
  • An eagerness to learn how to research and develop original story ideas for both on-screen and online
  • A willingness to learn and develop new skills with the appropriate training
  • Good organisational skills with the ability to plan ahead and prioritise tasks
  • Good writing skills (with good spelling and grammar)
  • Knowledge of the local area, its cultural heritage and an awareness of the types of stories that will engage our audiences.

Other things we’re looking for (key criteria)

  • Confident and clear communication and interpersonal skills
  • The ability to work collaboratively as part of a team
  • The ability to remain calm and resilient in a fast-paced environment
  • The ability to meet deadlines and manage time effectively
  • Resourcefulness and initiative in finding and developing stories
  • Positive attitude and enthusiasm for learning
  • Understanding of and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion and Health and Safety policies.

If you’re energized by a fast-paced, ever-changing environment and eager to learn the journalistic skills that will contribute to our success, then we encourage you to apply.

The rostered hours for this role will include weekend working, late shifts as well as early morning shifts and Bank Holidays. The working pattern will incorporate late shifts (typically 23:00 finish) as well as early morning (typically 05:00 start). You are expected to provide your own means of transportation to and from your main workplace. Because of the nature of news production, there will be occasions when you are required to work long and unsociable hours at short notice. Some members of the Production Team may be required to travel to district offices or to work in other news operations as well as attending relevant forums, development sessions and meetings off site as part of their role.

At ITV, we appreciate the use of technology for research during the application process. We understand that AI tools, including ChatGPT, can be valuable resources. However, we value authenticity and expect applicants to showcase their own thoughts and experiences. Applications that appear to be directly copied from AI-generated content may be subject to rejection. We believe in a fair and authentic assessment process, and your individuality is key to standing out in our selection.

Because those who make an impact deserve to be rewarded for it. ITV offers some great rewards and benefits including:

  • Generous holiday allowance, plus you can buy more
  • Annual bonus opportunity
  • Competitive pension contribution
  • Save as you earn - with an opportunity to buy ITV shares
  • Wellbeing and volunteering days plus a wide range of opportunities to help you live a balanced and healthy life

Junior Journalist Apprentice employer: Itv Plc

ITV News Central is an exceptional employer for aspiring journalists, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture in the heart of Birmingham. With a commitment to diversity and personal growth, employees benefit from hands-on training, a supportive environment, and opportunities to make a real impact in the world of broadcast journalism. The apprenticeship programme not only equips you with essential skills but also allows you to contribute to meaningful storytelling that resonates with millions.
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Contact Detail:

Itv Plc Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Junior Journalist Apprentice

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the latest news trends and stories in the Midlands. This will not only help you during the assessment centre but also show your genuine interest in regional journalism, which is a key aspect of the role.

✨Tip Number 2

Practice your storytelling skills by creating short news pieces or blog posts. This will prepare you for pitching your own story ideas during the apprenticeship and demonstrate your creativity and passion for journalism.

✨Tip Number 3

Network with current journalists or media professionals, especially those working in regional news. They can provide valuable insights into the industry and may even offer tips on how to excel in your application process.

✨Tip Number 4

Be prepared for the fast-paced environment of a newsroom. Practise staying calm under pressure and managing your time effectively, as these skills will be crucial during both the assessment centre and your potential role.

We think you need these skills to ace Junior Journalist Apprentice

Passion for news and current affairs
Strong writing skills with good spelling and grammar
Good organisational skills
Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team
Confident communication and interpersonal skills
Resourcefulness in finding and developing stories
Ability to remain calm in a fast-paced environment
Understanding of media law and compliance
Knowledge of local cultural heritage
Eagerness to learn and develop new skills
Positive attitude and enthusiasm for learning
Ability to meet deadlines and manage time effectively

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Junior Journalist Apprentice position. Familiarise yourself with ITV News Central's work and the type of stories they cover.

Craft a Personal Statement: Write a compelling personal statement that highlights your passion for journalism and storytelling. Share any relevant experiences, even if they are informal, and explain why you want to join ITV News Central specifically.

Showcase Your Skills: In your CV and application, emphasise your writing skills, organisational abilities, and any experience you have with digital content creation. Mention your knowledge of local news and current affairs, particularly in the Midlands.

Be Authentic: While it's tempting to use AI tools for assistance, ensure that your application reflects your own voice and experiences. Authenticity is key, so avoid copying content directly from AI-generated sources.

How to prepare for a job interview at Itv Plc

✨Show Your Passion for Journalism

Make sure to express your enthusiasm for news and current affairs during the interview. Share any personal experiences or stories that highlight your interest in journalism, especially within the East and West Midlands.

✨Prepare Story Ideas

Come prepared with a few original story ideas that you think would resonate with the local audience. This shows initiative and creativity, which are key traits for a Junior Journalist Apprentice.

✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills

Since the role requires collaboration in a busy newsroom, be ready to discuss examples of how you've successfully worked as part of a team in the past. Highlight your communication skills and ability to remain calm under pressure.

✨Research ITV and Its Values

Familiarise yourself with ITV's mission, values, and recent news stories. Understanding their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion will help you align your answers with their organisational culture during the interview.

Junior Journalist Apprentice
Itv Plc
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  • Junior Journalist Apprentice

    Birmingham
    Apprenticeship

    Application deadline: 2027-06-20

  • I

    Itv Plc

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