Digital Journalism Apprentice Review

Finding and editing videos to go out on BBC Social Media content, including liaising with producers and presenters to maximise the radio stations social media output and content. Interlaced with college work drop down weeks when applicable. In a typical setting I would be involved in daily briefings with content teams.

I have learned how to professionally edit videos and how to tell a narrative through video and audio. I have had very good drop down training weeks with the BBC academy which taught us practical journalism skills like interview techniques and how to talk on the phone. I have also learn how to communicate with people more effectively and present your own ideas

I enjoy the creative freedom I am afforded in both finding and creating my own videos to go out on social media. It can be difficult at times being the youngest employee in a fairly small and old fashioned office, but having said that, the relative size of the office means allows me to stay grounded and project my ideas and suggestions more effectively.

The programme is very well organised. There is a clear structure and it is easy to know who to go to if you have an issue. The apprenticeship overseers are friendly and always willing to listen and help if you have issues. There can be issues in terms of the amount of work given by the college, especially when trying to balance it with the output you are creating for your station

My line manager is always approachable and able to help if I have issues, though much of my job is relatively self independent and I don't speak to them on a particularly frequent basis. I have a good working relationship with my contemporary digital journalist and I don't often feel like I am 'surplus to requirement' as the designated apprentice. Sometimes there can be a bit of a disconnect in information being shared between my station and the apprenticeship and it is sometimes left to me to explain how my college schedule/exam/final qualification actually works in practicality.

Most of the tutors are pleasant and ready to help with issues surrounding work. Particular tutors have a negative attitude towards teaching the course and could be more progressive in the way they treat their students The content we learn is okay, aspects of it can be dry but there is the understanding that they have to be learnt to be a successful and reliable journalist

It is crucial as an apprentice journalist to know certain aspects of the law, such as copyright and defamation, when publishing stories and features on a regular basis. We learn about both of these concepts in depth during or qualification. Our training on basic technical skills, like operating a radio studio and using video editing software is also taught. It would be nice that have a bit more hands on training in some areas

I have been on pub trips with my work but only occasionally - I think this is owing to the large age gap I have with many of the other employees in my office. As a matter of personal preference, I like to keep my working and social life fairly disconnected.

Yes

Because the apprenticeship is well run, is well paid, and offers opportunities no other apprenticeship does. The application process is seamless and even if you don't make it through the interview stage, you learn invaluable skills along the way. You also get to travel the country and be taught on some of the best media training courses available

Other people looking to apply should try and build up a portfolio to show and demonstrate their interest in telling stories in an engaging and visual way. They should learn how to spot a story and what makes a good piece of news, as well as study academic topics that lend themselves to a job in the media