An annual scheme that helps aspiring journalists develop their writing skills is set to launch again.

The Young Reporter Scheme has been running since 2008, and gives school children the opportunity to write for Newsquest’s myriad of online newspapers.

The scheme is open for students in Years 10 to 13, and provides the perfect springboard for those wishing to pursue a career in writing.

Surrey Comet: Newsquest is running its Young Reporter Scheme againNewsquest is running its Young Reporter Scheme again (Image: Pixabay)

All students will be enrolled onto the programme through their school, with the scheme starting in September.

It is set to run for eight months, and students are expected to write one article per month during this time.

Jenny Greenland from Tolworth Girls’ School in Surbiton, who has worked with this programme over the years, said: “This scheme gives students real work experience, not just developing their writing skills and time management but giving them some amazing opportunities to review.”

Jo Zanetti, a teacher at Parmiter’s School in Watford, added: “Each year, the Young Reporter Scheme provides our students with an excellent opportunity to develop both their writing and analytical skills and also key employability skills such as communication, adaptability, problem-solving, time management and initiative.

“The students receive excellent support and all agree that taking part has helped them to engage with their local community, sharpen their writing skills and help them to prepare for the rigours of independent research and analysis required for A-level and university study.”

This programme believes that all students deserve a voice and therefore all are welcome, irrespective of their academic abilities.

Even if journalism is not the end plan, the scheme will help to broaden their horizons, take them out of their comfort zones and hone their writing skills.

If this sounds like it might be of interest to your school get in touch via email – info@youngreporter.co.uk – or phone –  0208 722 6378.

Discover more about the scheme at www.youngreporter.co.uk