Reach announces launch of training programme

Reach says around 30 potential candidates from underprivileged and underrepresented backgrounds within London are attending a taster day today at its headquarters in Canary Wharf, participating in a variety of workshops and assessment centres.

Following the taster day, twelve young people aged between 18 and 30 will then be selected to take part in the scheme’s four week programme.

Reach says the programme will include opportunities to work across its titles including the Mirror, Express, Star, OK!, MyLondon and BusinessLive. The scheme will include immersive work experience days looking at online safety, media law, newsgathering, editorial masterclasses, digital storytelling and employability workshops.

The training scheme will run between 17th September until the 11th of October. At the end of the four weeks, candidates will get the opportunity to apply for six entry level roles within Reach newsrooms where they will complete a level 3 content creation apprenticeship, added the publisher. Candidates who do not go on to receive apprenticeship roles will continue to receive ongoing mentoring and support from the Prince’s Trust.

David Higgerson, chief digital publisher at Reach said: “We hope this programme will bring in new talent and perspectives, supporting our efforts to reach new audiences and communities. We recognise that getting into specialist journalism courses isn't an option for everyone and hope that this scheme will open doors within the industry.”

Katherine Eveleigh, senior head of service delivery at The Prince’s Trust said: "Programmes like this are essential in helping us support young people to overcome barriers and fulfill their potential irrespective of their background or circumstances. With the unique opportunity to learn firsthand from industry professionals across the sector, we look forward to seeing what they go on to achieve as they aim to start meaningful careers in the industry of their own."