The Young Journalists’ Academy (YJA) is a unique free programme for young people. We aim to inspire and train the newsmakers of tomorrow.

In partnership with some of the world’s leading media organisations, the YJA gives aspiring journalists the skills and the contacts they need to kick-start their careers in the media.

What You’ll Do

To give you a flavour of our summer academy’s jam-packed week, you will:

• Meet and interview journalists and editors;
• Create podcasts and videos;
• Learn how to write great opinion pieces;
• Report live news;
• Review the latest books, films, TV, and music.

Testimonials

Shingi Mararike, Sky News Correspondent:

I took my first steps into journalism with the Young Journalists’ Academy. Before, I had never met a journalist or had my writing critiqued by anyone other than my mother. The YJA taught me to understand the rigours of a modern newsroom, from coming up with original ideas to writing well under pressure.

After the YJA summer school, I knew I wanted a career in journalism. Fast forward a few years, now with an English degree and countless training and work-experience opportunities with the YJA, I became the first ever paid apprentice at The Sunday Times. I’m now a news correspondent at Sky News.

Elsa Makouezi, Director of Communications, The Washington Post:

Taking part in the summer school gave me a great insight into the world of journalism and allowed me to learn from some of the best in the business. Since then, I’ve worked in journalism, public relations and communications.

After the YJA, I then worked at the YJA for a year before joining a global Public Relations agency as a content writer, writing bylines for various clients. After working in PR, I completed a Masters at the London School of Economics and have since been working in the Corporate Communications team at Dow Jones, supporting on internal comms and communications for the CEO.

How To Apply

To apply, simply complete the short form on the Young Academies Group website here. Please note, you must be 16-21 years old during the time of the summer academy, which will take place in London.

You’ll be asked to submit a short statement on why you’d like to join the academy and either a short opinion piece or video on a subject you’re passionate about.  Applications close on July 7.