Newspaper journalism is often seen as glamorous and exciting but, as with any occupation, success comes only after much hard work and routine activity. However, each day in newspapers is different and the training you receive will give you the flexibility to cover a wide range of news stories and features. Newspaper journalism draws on many skills and can give you a tremendous sense of achievement. So, have you got what it takes?

What qualities do editors look for?

To convince an editor you are worth appointing you will need to be able to demonstrate the following:

• an interest in current affairs at all levels
• a lively interest in people, places and events
• an ability to write in a style which is easy to understand
• good spelling, grammar and punctuation
• an appreciation of the part a local newspaper plays in the community
• a willingness to accept irregular hours
• an ability to work under pressure to meet deadlines
• determination and persistence

How do I get into the newspaper industry?

The majority of trainees taken on by Newsquest London are recruited only after attending full-time vocational training courses accredited by the NCTJ. Some of these courses are for graduates only; others require five GCSEs including English and two A-levels. This route is known as pre-entry. Suitable applicants are required to take a written test, and if successful, will be invited to attend a selection interview at the college of their choice. Fast-track courses are run at various collegesˇXsee the NCTJ website for more details Most colleges will only grant places if the applicants have already been on a brief work experience placement at a newspaper. You should write to a number of local newspaper editors, explain why you think you would make a good reporter and ask if they will allow you to join their team for a few days. Try to pick a time other than June or July, when pressure on work experience places is at its greatest.

Photographers

The NCTJ also runs a photo-journalism course, which, as the term implies, is a journalism-based course with photography as its foundation. Tutors will help you develop natural news sense in tune with an ability to use a camera and ancillary equipment to the best advantage; there is also a comprehensive reporter module. Not all Newsquest London editors, however, require you to have completed an NCTJ course to become a press photographer. If you can demonstrate photographic skills coupled with commitment, personality and an enquiring mind which can look at the obvious and see something different, a qualification, although desirable, may not be essential.