Apprenticeship
TL;DR
Key Takeaways
- Start your journalism career with a 24-month Junior Journalist Apprenticeship at BBC Radio Orkney.
- Earn £24,650 per year while working towards an SCQF Level 7 qualification.
- Gain hands-on experience in researching, interviewing, and content creation.
- Ideal for school leavers or those seeking an alternative to university, with a passion for storytelling and news.
About the Role
About the Apprenticeship
This is a 24-month, full-time Junior Journalist Apprenticeship at BBC Radio Orkney in Kirkwall.
What You'll Do
- Work alongside experienced journalists to develop your skills and create high-quality content.
- Gain hands-on experience in researching stories, booking guests, and writing briefs.
- Discover and develop compelling stories, assisting with interviews.
- Learn from industry experts.
- Study for an industry-recognised SCQF7 apprenticeship qualification, with weekly in-person classes in Glasgow (or virtual for those not based there).
Qualifications and Modules
You will study a range of modules including:
- Media Law
- Essential Journalism
- Broadcast Journalism
- Journalism for a Digital Audience
- Video Journalism
Modules will be assessed through exams, coursework, and a portfolio of work.
Who You Are
We are looking for individuals who are:
- Naturally curious about people and current events, with a keen interest in news.
- Creative and enjoy finding innovative ways to tell engaging stories.
- Enthusiastic about finding things out, asking questions, and getting to the heart of a story.
- Passionate about writing and communicating complex ideas clearly.
- Able to thrive in a fast-paced environment, showing flexibility and motivation.
This scheme is aimed at non-graduates. You must have achieved English GCSE at Grade 4/C or above (or equivalent).
For those under 19 at the start of the apprenticeship, Maths GCSE at Grade 4/C or above (or equivalent) is also required to pass the apprenticeship.
Eligibility Criteria
- Be 18 years old or over by September 2027.
- Have lived in the UK continuously for the last three years.
- Be legally eligible to work full-time in the UK.
- Not currently enrolled in another apprenticeship.
- Not already hold a qualification in the same subject area at the same or a higher level.
- Not have completed or be studying for the NCTJ diploma or a journalism qualification at the same level or higher.
Application Process
- Create a candidate profile and answer a few questions – no CV or cover letter needed.
- You’ll need to live within a commutable distance of Kirkwall.
- Relocation support may be available subject to financial eligibility criteria.
What Happens After
Upon completion, you will be supported with career development, employability training, and networking opportunities to help you take your next step in the creative industry.