At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our editorial training scheme to become a skilled reporter or sub-editor.
- Company: Daily Mail, Britain's leading newspaper group with a rich history.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, intensive training, and potential for permanent positions.
- Other info: Exciting placements in major cities and a pathway to senior roles.
- Why this job: Kickstart your journalism career with hands-on experience and mentorship.
- Qualifications: NCTJ qualification preferred; editing skills for sub-editors without formal qualifications.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Applications are invited for the editorial training scheme (news reporters and sub-editors) run by the Daily Mail. We are looking for budding journalists with broad interests who want to work for Britain's most successful newspaper group.
Our trainees embark on a two-year long programme that involves intense training, assessment and on-the-job experience at daily newspapers. The successful reporter applicants will have an NCTJ qualification or equivalent and will have shown a commitment to journalism by writing or editing for their student newspaper/website and gained work experience in newsrooms. Sub-editors will be considered without a journalism qualification if they can demonstrate editing skills and experience.
We want self-starters with a real interest in current affairs who can write and edit accurately and in style. Previous graduates of the training scheme now hold senior positions at the Mail’s titles.
The reporting course starts on August 24 and the subbing course on September 28. There will be three weeks of intensive in-house training for reporters and four weeks for sub-editors, during which the trainees are introduced to Mail style. It is followed by three months' placement – at the Scottish Daily Mail in Glasgow, the Irish Daily Mail in Dublin, Metro, The i Paper or a regional daily - after which the trainees will join the Mail newsroom.
Trainees will be on the best journalism course in the business and paid a competitive salary while they train. Nearly all are offered staff jobs at the end.
Please specify in the subject of the email whether your application is for a trainee sub-editor or news reporter. Interviews will be held in April. This advert will expire on Friday 13th March 2026.
Reporters and Sub-Editors employer: Southern Daily Echo
The Daily Mail offers an exceptional opportunity for aspiring journalists through its editorial training scheme, providing a robust two-year programme that combines intensive training with hands-on experience in a dynamic newsroom environment. With a commitment to nurturing talent, the company fosters a supportive work culture where creativity and current affairs are at the forefront, ensuring that trainees not only receive competitive salaries but also have a clear pathway to career advancement within one of Britain's leading newspaper groups.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Reporters and Sub-Editors
✨Get Involved with Student Media
If you're eyeing a trainee role in journalism, make sure to get involved with your university’s student media outlets. They’re a fantastic way to build your portfolio, gain practical experience, and meet like-minded people. Plus, it shows potential employers like Southern Daily Echo that you're serious about your craft!
✨Attend Journalism Events and Workshops
Look for local journalism events, panel discussions, and workshops. These are goldmines for networking and can lead to opportunities that might not be advertised. Introduce yourself, share your interests, and don’t hesitate to ask questions; you never know who might be the next person to offer you a trainee position!
✨Create an Online Portfolio
As a journalism trainee, it’s vital to have a strong online presence. Build a personal website showcasing your articles, interviews, and any multimedia work. This not only highlights your skills but also gives Southern Daily Echo a reason to remember you when the right trainee spot opens up!
✨Leverage Social Media for Visibility
Don’t underestimate the power of social media in the journalism field. Follow industry leaders and engage with their content. Use platforms like Twitter to share your thoughts on current events or comment on trending stories. This can help you establish your voice and get noticed by recruiters at places like Southern Daily Echo.
We think you need these skills to ace Reporters and Sub-Editors
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Media:When applying for a trainee role in journalism and media, let your enthusiasm shine through! Mention any personal projects, blogs, or even social media channels where you’ve showcased your writing skills or ability to engage with an audience. We want to feel your passion through your application to see how you'd fit in with our vibe at Southern Daily Echo.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Even if you haven’t worked in journalism before, don’t underestimate the value of related experience! Whether it's a school newspaper, local radio station, or content creation role, make sure to emphasise any positions that have involved writing, editing, or storytelling. It’ll show us your commitment and skills in the industry, which is super important for a trainee.
Tailor Your Writing Samples:For a trainee position, quality writing samples are key! Choose pieces that reflect your ability to research, report, and write compelling content. Ensure they are varied, showcasing different styles and mediums, as we love seeing your versatility. Remember, you want to impress us with your potential, so make these samples count!
Customize Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to express why you want to join Southern Daily Echo and how this trainee role fits into your career aspirations. Discuss specific media issues that excite you or experiences that led you to this role. It’s all about showing us you’re not just looking for any position, but that you genuinely want to grow with us in journalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Southern Daily Echo
✨Know Your Digital Tools
In the world of journalism, being familiar with digital tools is a must. Make sure you can talk about your experience with content management systems, social media platforms, and even basic editing software. If you’ve created content online before, share examples that showcase your skills!
✨Show Your Passion for Storytelling
As a trainee in journalism, your enthusiasm for storytelling is incredibly important. Be prepared to discuss your favourite pieces of writing, articles that have inspired you, and any unique stories you've covered. This will help show that you genuinely care about the craft, which is what most interviewers want to see.
✨Research the Latest Trends
Before the interview, do a quick scan of the current media landscape. What are the hot topics in journalism right now? Knowing about issues like investigative reporting or the impact of social media on news will give you an edge. Plus, it shows you’re engaged with the industry.
✨Bring a Portfolio of Work
Even as a trainee, having a portfolio can set you apart. Compile your best writing samples, articles, or even multimedia projects you’ve worked on. When asked about your experience, you can refer to specific pieces and discuss what you learned from each — this gives a practical touch to your aspirations!
