Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team covering breaking news and trending stories in Cambridgeshire.
- Company: Exciting editorial team with a focus on digital journalism.
- Benefits: 25 days holiday, structured career progression, and great perks.
- Why this job: Make an impact in journalism while developing your skills and advancing your career.
- Qualifications: NCTJ qualifications preferred; strong digital storytelling and social media skills.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with opportunities for training and growth.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 28000 £ per year.
We’re looking for a trainee reporter in Cambridgeshire who has what it takes to join a dynamic digital team covering breaking news, trending stories and reporting on patch. No day is the same in this busy news patch, where you will be part of a dedicated team setting the agenda with fast-paced, accurate responses to the news that truly matters to our audiences. You will be supported by the Cambridgeshire editors and other reporters, given training to qualify as a senior reporter and progress within the company. The role will be a hybrid mix of office working, patch work and home working, and your work will also contribute to the weekly editions of our newspapers covering stories across Huntingdonshire and Ely.
Key Responsibilities
- Live blogging a breaking incident one minute and picking up on a story that will fly on social the next.
- Working on high‑performing evergreen content that means people frequently return to our websites.
- Publishing stories across our social media and digital platforms.
- Working on more in‑depth stories in the background, covering a range of topics.
- Contributing to weekly newspaper editions alongside the existing team.
- Working fast, first and accurately as part of the reporting team.
- Optimising content for social and search audiences with support.
- Working within IPSO regulations and legal and ethical guidelines.
- Participating in early and late shifts, as well as some weekends, on a rota basis that is not too intrusive.
- Taking part in interviews held on a rolling basis.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
- NCTJ qualifications, shorthand preferable, or an equivalent qualification.
- Ability to respond quickly and accurately to breaking news.
- Confidence working across digital platforms and social media.
- Ability to identify trending stories and high‑performing evergreen content.
- Strong digital storytelling skills and willingness to learn.
- Commitment to legal and ethical guidelines, including IPSO regulations.
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a dedicated digital news team.
- Willingness to work a hybrid pattern across office, home and patch.
- Drive to progress to senior reporter through training and support.
Benefits
- 25 days holiday + bank holidays + your birthday off
- Holiday buy scheme for extra flexibility
- Structured career progression & ongoing training
- Pension plan
- Employee Helpline counselling and advice
- Perks & discounts including:
- Gym membership
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Eye care
- Retail discounts
Trainee Reporter employer: Newsquest
Contact Detail:
Newsquest Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Reporter
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend local journalism events, workshops, or even online webinars. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that trainee reporter gig!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your best work, whether it's articles, blogs, or social media posts. Make sure to highlight your ability to cover breaking news and trending stories, as that's what they're looking for!
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up. Reach out to the company directly through our website, express your interest, and ask about potential opportunities. It shows initiative and can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to reporting. Think about how you'd handle breaking news or identify trending stories. Confidence is key, so get comfortable talking about your passion for journalism!
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Reporter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Trainee Reporter role. Highlight your relevant skills, like digital storytelling and your ability to respond quickly to breaking news. We want to see how you fit into our dynamic team!
Show Off Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for journalism shine through in your application. Share any experiences that demonstrate your commitment to reporting and your understanding of the digital landscape. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely excited about the role!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your potential as a Trainee Reporter.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Newsquest
✨Know Your Patch
Familiarise yourself with the local news landscape in Cambridgeshire. Research recent stories, trending topics, and key issues affecting the community. This will not only show your enthusiasm for the role but also help you engage in meaningful conversations during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Digital Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with digital platforms and social media. Bring examples of your work, whether it's articles, blog posts, or social media campaigns. Highlight how you've used these tools to engage audiences and drive traffic.
✨Demonstrate Quick Thinking
As a trainee reporter, you'll need to respond quickly to breaking news. During the interview, practice articulating your thoughts on hypothetical scenarios or recent news events. This will showcase your ability to think on your feet and handle pressure.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Ethics
Understanding legal and ethical guidelines is crucial in journalism. Be ready to discuss how you would approach sensitive stories and adhere to IPSO regulations. This will demonstrate your professionalism and commitment to responsible reporting.