Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a two-year graduate scheme, learning journalism across various departments.
- Company: The Times and Sunday Times, renowned for quality journalism.
- Benefits: Generous holiday, health perks, training access, and discounts on books and gym memberships.
- Why this job: Kickstart your journalism career with hands-on experience and mentorship from industry leaders.
- Qualifications: Passion for journalism, creativity, and commitment to storytelling.
- Other info: Exclusive events and opportunities to connect with top journalists and celebrities.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 32000 £ per year.
The Times and The Sunday Times invite applications for its 2026 graduate training programme. This two‑year scheme is based in London and begins at the end of August 2026. Candidates will receive on‑the‑job training, mentoring and guidance, spending time with different departments across both papers — including reporting, production and digital teams — to learn content creation, storytelling, audience growth and capture.
We look for applicants with originality, talent, commitment and a love of journalism.
Your Application
Please apply by uploading two documents:
- A cover letter (max 500 words) explaining why you want to join the programme, together with three examples of your published journalism — preferably full articles rather than hyperlinks.
- Your CV.
Applications close Sunday 19 April 2026.
Benefits
- Maternity leave up to 18 weeks full basic salary & paternity leave up to 2 weeks
- Wide range of training available, plus full LinkedIn Learning access
- Private medical insurance including coverage for pre‑existing conditions
- Discounted gym memberships, free ClassPass at Home, weekly virtual yoga classes
- Bikes for Work and Electric Car scheme
- Up to 60% discount on Harper Collins books
- Access to exclusive events, competitions, weekly virtual panel chats with top journalists and celebrities
- Wellbeing benefits such as EAP, physio/massage and counselling
- Generous pension scheme with employer contributions up to 5%
- 30 days holiday, plus bank holidays and up to 4 volunteering days per year
The Times and Sunday Times Graduate Trainee Scheme employer: TargetJobs UK
Contact Detail:
TargetJobs UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land The Times and Sunday Times Graduate Trainee Scheme
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former trainees from The Times and Sunday Times. They can give you insider tips on what the programme is really like and how to stand out in your application.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for journalism! When you get the chance to chat with recruiters or during interviews, share your favourite stories or articles you've written. Let them see your enthusiasm and originality shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Before any interviews, do some mock interviews with friends or mentors. This will help you articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently, making a great impression when it counts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, keep an eye on our social media for updates and tips that could give you an edge in the process.
We think you need these skills to ace The Times and Sunday Times Graduate Trainee Scheme
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to explain why you’re passionate about journalism and what makes you a great fit for the programme. Keep it concise, engaging, and don’t forget to show off your personality!
Showcase Your Best Work: When it comes to your published journalism examples, choose pieces that highlight your originality and talent. Full articles are preferred, so pick those that best demonstrate your storytelling skills and ability to engage an audience.
Tailor Your CV: Your CV should reflect your commitment to journalism and any relevant experience. Highlight internships, writing gigs, or projects that showcase your skills. Remember, we want to see how you can contribute to our team!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your documents and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy, which is a bonus in today’s digital world!
How to prepare for a job interview at TargetJobs UK
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you’re well-versed in The Times and Sunday Times' recent articles and their editorial style. This shows your genuine interest in the publication and helps you discuss how your skills align with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Passion for Journalism
Be ready to talk about why journalism excites you! Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment and originality. This is your chance to demonstrate your love for storytelling and audience engagement.
✨Prepare Your Examples
Since they want to see your published work, have three strong examples ready to discuss. Be prepared to explain the context of each piece, your role in its creation, and what you learned from the experience.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask insightful questions about the programme or the teams you'll be working with. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.