At a Glance
- Tasks: Gain hands-on experience in journalism and media over three exciting days.
- Company: Join Reach PLC, the UK's largest commercial news publisher.
- Benefits: Receive a 12-month subscription to a Reach publication and valuable career insights.
- Other info: Diverse backgrounds are encouraged; we value potential and creativity.
- Why this job: Explore your passion for storytelling and learn from industry professionals.
- Qualifications: Must be a secondary school or college student with a keen interest in media.
This opportunity is ideal for students studying journalism, media, communications, English, digital content creation, broadcasting, or related subjects.
Dates: 4th, 5th & 6th August 2026
Location: 4th Floor, 42-44 Rosemary Street, Belfast, BT1 1QE
Application Deadline: Midnight on 6th July 2026
Please note we may close applications early depending on volume, so we encourage interested students to apply as soon as possible.
This is a voluntary work experience placement designed to support students in school or college (Year 13/14) exploring future careers in journalism, media and digital publishing.
About Reach PLC
Reach PLC is the UK's largest commercial news publisher and the creative force behind iconic national titles including the Mirror, Express, and Star, alongside leading regional brands such as BelfastLive, Daily Record, Manchester Evening News, Liverpool Echo, ChronicleLive and WalesOnline. We are committed to developing the next generation of media talent by providing meaningful opportunities for young people to gain first-hand experience of the industry.
The Opportunity
Are you the person who is always following the news, creating content, spotting trends on social media, or thinking about the stories that matter in your community? This placement is designed for students currently studying at secondary school or college who are interested in journalism, media, communications, digital content, broadcasting or related subjects. Over three days, you'll gain an inside look at a professional newsroom, learn how stories are researched, written and published, and discover the many career paths available within modern media.
How To Apply
To apply, click the "I'm interested" button and complete the required contact fields. In the Resume section, tell us about three stories you would be excited to create or report on. Please include:
- A working headline or title
- Why the story interests you
- The format you would choose (for example: article, interview, podcast, social media video or photo feature)
We're not looking for finished work. We simply want to understand your interests, creativity and approach to storytelling.
What You Can Expect
During the placement, successful applicants will:
- Attend editorial briefings and see how news teams decide which stories lead the day's coverage.
- Experience a modern digital newsroom and observe how stories develop from idea to publication.
- Learn how social media, audience data and analytics help shape news coverage.
- Explore how digital publishers engage audiences across multiple platforms.
- Shadow journalists and observe how they research stories, conduct interviews and build professional relationships.
- Gain insight into careers across journalism, audience, social, video and digital content teams.
Who We're Looking For
We're looking for enthusiastic, curious and creative students who:
- Are currently studying at secondary school or college.
- Have a strong interest in journalism, media, communications, digital storytelling or related fields.
- Enjoy following the news, creating content or understanding what makes a great story.
- Are eager to learn in a professional environment.
- Can travel to our Belfast office for the duration of the programme.
Placement Highlights
- Learn directly from experienced editors, reporters and digital content specialists.
- Develop confidence, workplace skills and a deeper understanding of media careers.
- Take part in a one-to-one session with our Talent Acquisition team covering CV writing, networking, job searching and interview skills.
- Receive a 12-month subscription to a Reach publication of your choice.
Please note that only applicants who complete the full application process will be considered. If you have any questions about the programme or application process, please contact the Talent Acquisition team.
Additional Information
We value potential, passion and curiosity. We welcome applications from students of all backgrounds and believe diverse perspectives help us better serve our audiences and communities. As an equal opportunities employer, we are committed to a recruitment process that is fair, inclusive and free from discrimination.
Secondary School & College Work Experience Placement in Belfast employer: REACH PLC
Reach PLC is an exceptional employer for aspiring journalists and media professionals, offering a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a vibrant newsroom environment in Belfast. With a commitment to nurturing the next generation of talent, employees benefit from mentorship by industry experts, valuable networking sessions, and a supportive work culture that values diversity and creativity. This placement not only enhances practical skills but also provides insights into various career paths within the media landscape, making it a rewarding experience for students eager to explore their future in journalism.
