An annual competition which aims to discover the next generation of journalists and vloggers has launched at Staffordshire University.
The Future Journalist Awards is open to young people aged seven to 18. To enter, applicants need to write an article, review or blog, or create a short video or audio clip.
The launch event, held at the University’s broadcast newsroom, was attended by teachers from schools across Staffordshire. Organised by third-year journalism and PR students, the Awards aim to inspire young people considering a career in media.
Matthew Brindley-Sadler, Associate Dean for the School of Computing and Digital Technologies at Staffordshire University, said: “The main aim of the Future Journalist Awards is to champion local talent. We would encourage anyone with a passion for writing, blogging and vlogging, content creation, or an interest in creating videos or podcasts to enter.
“Over the next couple of months, students from the media department will be delivering workshops at schools and colleges around Staffordshire and surrounding areas, promoting the competition and providing guidance on entering.”
Teachers can book a workshop at their school by emailing futurejournalist@staffs.ac.uk.
Students from John Wheeldon Primary Academy, in Stafford, have participated in the competition for the last few years. Jess Robertson, Assistant Principal, said: “The Future Journalist Awards is an event our school looks forward to each year. For our children, it’s so worthwhile in terms of raising aspirations, offering meaningful writing opportunities and providing them with a wider audience for their writing.
“The workshops are always of a high-quality and provide pupils with an insight into a career in journalism. It’s useful for the children to see how their learning can open doors for their future.”
Finalists from the five categories will be invited to a special award ceremony that takes place on Friday 20 March, 2020. The winner of each category will receive a £50 Amazon voucher and will be invited to take part in a Newsday Experience at Staffordshire University's Broadcast Newsroom.