Digital Journalism Apprentice Review

My role includes researching, filming and editing videos. I am on a team who produce stories about ethnic minorities and under-represented communities. My role also includes using social media regularly to find and promote stories. Also, as part of my apprenticeship I complete coursework in video and photography, whilst completing weekly homework, and whilst preparing for my upcoming exams.

I have learnt many skills, including how to edit on Final Cut Pro, how to edit and create a radio package, how to do a piece-to-camera and create a TV package, how to write articles and features, and I attended detailed training on how to use a camera. I have developed my networking skills, and become more confident in speaking to/meeting new people.

I really enjoy the programme, I have learnt so many new skills and met some of the greatest people, people who I hope to be friends with for life. The workload can be stressful and was a massive jump for me after coming straight from college, but regardless it has been fun. BBC is a good, welcoming company.

We are given an Apprenticeship Year Plan, a detailed structure of how the the two years of the apprenticeship will be organised. The spreadsheet highlights college days, training and revision weeks, exam dates, and placement dates. However, I think we could be given clearer organisation on when deadlines are due, e.g. for college coursework.

Our Apprenticeship co-ordinator and manager frequently checks up on us to see how we are coping, and if we have any issues or worries we receive support from them. My placement managers sometimes ask if I am okay. My mentor does not get in contact but my buddy is very useful.

The trainers send regular homework and revision materials to ensure we are fully prepared for our exams, and receive the correct support for the exam period. However, there is lack of support in guidance with problems, I often email the trainers if I have any issues and don't tend to get a reply.

Studying the NCTJ has allowed me to understand more about the media indistry, current affairs, journalism law and much more. Before starting the qualification, I didn't know anything about politics or public affairs, and wasn't even aware that journalists had to follow media law regulations- knowing this important and current information has helped me to succeed in my role.

The BBC Club offers loads of extra curricular activities, such as gym, swimming, music clubs, running clubs, etc. Also, there is an option to get extra language lessons, for example learning French, Spanish or sign language at all levels. There are also classes to learn how to film and edit

Yes

I have learned so many skills, that I wouldn't have learnt anywhere else. In the space of a few months I know how to shoot, edit, and write- something that would take a lot longer to learn in university. Waking up every day knowing that you work for the country's biggest broadcaster is amazing!

Smile! The interviewers would love to see that you are happy and enthusiastic! Show that you are passionate about the scheme you are applying for, for example, if its Journalism, show them how much you love to tell stories! Be yourself! The building is full of unique characters, don't think that you have to pretend to be someone else!