‘As a student aspiring to become a journalist, it would not only be a once in a lifetime opportunity to be a part of the Thomson Reuters “Press Gang” but an honour to learn about the world of journalism through the world’s leading international multimedia news provider.’

When Rep London asked for enthusiastic would-be journalists to apply to be a part of the Reuters Press Gang we were overwhelmed by the quality of the applications. As well as being asked to explain why they would like to be part of the Press Gang, the young people aged 14 to 19 were asked to submit a short news story reporting on something of interest that has happened in their school or college or in their local community.

Clearly, working with the news and media division of Thomson Reuters and being given the opportunity to report on the build up to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games was too good a proposition to be taken lightly; the level of passion demonstrated through these stories was outstanding. The range of topics was surprising, from a devastating experience of knife crime, a school’s ban on hoodies and a report on school rivalry to articles on Year 10 work experience and Rep London modules. The students’ keen interest in journalism was more than apparent and made very interesting reading for the Rep London team.

Following the application process, 13 youngsters attended a fascinating ‘Introduction to Journalism’ session back in December. The morning served as a compelling welcome to Thomson Reuters and its people, past and present. The students learned about the importance of accuracy and speed and went on to write their very first articles as members of the Press Gang!

The Press Gang will meet again in January and will attend six further classes plus a networking session offering the young journalists the opportunity to meet professionals working in the field. A rare opportunity to learn about such things as ethics and interviewing, the sessions will certainly give these budding journalists a solid grounding on which to begin their careers. To sum up the value of the programme in the words of one Rep London student, ‘It would be a privilege to have experts teaching me skills that I could only dream of.’ For 13 youngsters, this dream is becoming a reality.