Applications for this year’s Digital Journalist Apprentice Scheme will open on Friday 13th March 2015 and the scheme will begin in mid-September. You will need at least 5 GCSEs,
including Maths and English at grade A-C. Because this apprenticeship is aimed at nongraduates, if you have a degree, or are studying for one, then we are sorry but you are not
eligible for this. Likewise, if you have any education or training qualifications which are above Level 4 you may not be eligible. If you are in any doubt whether you are eligibleontact BBC Recruitment: email: recruitment@bbc.co.uk Phone: 0370 333 1330
What kind of apprenticeship will I be studying for?
It’s an 18-month long apprenticeship in journalism designed by the National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ). Apprentices will be placed in news
teams throughout the BBC, where they will work and train alongside experienced BBC journalists. We will give you training in the technical and editorial skills that you
will need to work in a BBC newsroom. After sufficient training you will be given the opportunity to make a real contribution to our news output. The training will be
overseen by the BBC Academy.
I don’t have any journalism experience or training. Should I apply?
Yes. We are more interested in your potential as a BBC journalist than previous experience or training. A passion for news and current affairs, creativity, drive and resilience
are the qualities we are looking for in our apprentices.
How will I know how I am doing?
In the first seven weeks we’ll give you an induction into the BBC and then a good grounding in basic BBC journalism. We will also give you all the relevant technical training to
start your first work placement, and we will top up your training in specific skills if you need it. You’ll be assigned a mentor, someone to support and guide you throughout
the year. Your mentor will be in touch with you regularly to see how you’re getting on and to offer advice and encouragement. There will be a structured evaluation
process for the length of the apprenticeship. You will be given feedback on your performance and you will be askedto give your own feedback too.
Hours of Work, Holidays and Training Allowance
Working in journalism is not a 9 to 5, Monday to Friday job. The hours can be long when you are working to tight deadlines, but they can also be very rewarding. You
will be entitled to five weeks holiday during your year plus UK bank holidays (or time off if you are scheduled to work) and an extra day at Christmas specified by the
BBC. Currently, the annual training allowance is £11.5k per annum, but this is under review. At the beginning of your apprenticeship you will spend seven weeks training
in Birmingham. We will pay your accommodation, some meals and travel expenses. After that, we won’t expect to reimburse you for any expenses involved in getting to and
from your BBC base. If you are sent out on assignments during your apprenticeship you will be reimbursed for any
legitimate expenses in line with the expenses policy of that particular office.
Where will I be based?
You will have the chance to express a preference whereyou would like to be based. The locations will include:
New Broadcasting House in London,
MediaCityUK in Salford,
Pacific Quay in Glasgow,
BBC Northern Ireland
or BBC Wales in Cardiff
Is there an age limit for trainees?
Due to health and safety considerations, we cannot accept applications from individuals under the age of 18 at the time of the apprenticeship. There is no upper age
limit. If you live abroad, you can apply as long as you have a permit to live and work in the UK at the time of your application.
Will I get a job at the end of the scheme?
By the end of the scheme you will be in a strong position to apply for BBC jobs and we will also give you coaching and support in how to apply for jobs within the BBC
once your apprenticeship has come to an end. The nature of the modern broadcast industry is that people often work on three, six or 12-month contract.
Apply online
bbc.co.uk/dja
