Digital journalist apprentice Review

Where we are based changes regularly- however recently I have been based as a researcher in Radio Wales which involves booking and interviewing guests, thinking of story ideas and new ways to cover them, attending meetings and writing briefs for the presenter. I also work on my e-portolio of work in any spare time I have.

I've learned many new skills, including researching- how to find unique stories and guests, and many digital and technical skills such recording on cameras, microphones and phones- I've learned what angles work best for what piece of journalism (for example the angle you'd use for a TV piece would be different to what you'd use for a social media piece).

I really enjoy the apprenticeship as no day is ever the same, and we are constantly given oppurtunities that are exciting. You learn so much everyday about not only the media industry but also about working with others and the importance of team dynamics, often without even realising you are doing so- every lesson you learn is fun and useful.

We are told well in advance what weeks we are expected to be at college, and what weeks we are supposed to be in work. College is very well organised. The work side of things (at the BBC) isn't so much but I suppose this is hard to achieve in such an organisation as our job role is based on the news, which is ever-changing. However, when we do have courses away, we are told well in advance and all travel and accommodation is sorted for us.

We receive a lot of support from our employer- there is an extensive support network in place for us. We have "buddies", "mentors" and line managers who arrange regular meetings with us to catch up and are always available for a chat. Our scheme manager is also always in regular contact with us.

We have a number of really good lecturers who are experts in their field, however it does sometimes seem like no-one really has a solid idea about what to expect from the exams, or knows what equipment we may need. I'm assuming this is because its the college's first time running the course. Despite this though, support towards helping us complete our e-portfolio is very good.

I think that working towards the NCTJ Level 3 diploma in journalism has helped me in my work role massively - especially on days when we are sent out to practice filming or interviewing, or taught how to call guests and ask for an interview. Learning about the law and ethical side of thinks has also definitely made me consider things more slowly in work and check to make sure the questions I'm asking are fair and that my writing is unbiased.

I have not come across many extra-curricular activities at work, although I have heard there is a toga club on Fridays. I know there is a welsh lesson once a week for welsh speakers though. There are many networking events that we are all regularly emailed about, including sessions for teaching young people how to pitch their ideas.

Yes

I would recommend this course to a friend because no day is the same, and you really are learning on the job as you go. I was finding it hard to choose between this apprenticeship and going to uni but I'm so glad I chose to do this as I feel like I've learned more and had more opportunities in the last few months then I would have done with 3 years at uni.

Firstly, be patient- it is a bit of a long process. By the time I got asked to do an interview, I'd forgot I even applied. The BBC are always looking for creative people so don't be afraid to tell them some of your craziest ideas. Finally, just be confident in yourself- even if you're not just pretend to be!