Aims

The emphasis of this five-day course is on extensive practical work, including the development of stories researched and written by delegates, and also an opportunity for in-depth feedback. You will examine the genesis and development of live news copy for comparison with the theoretical examples studied as part of the craft of good writing. You will focus on developing the essential news writing reporting skills through a combination of workshops, discussions and practical exercises, and you will gain an appreciation of the value of news, and then develop the skills required for professional news reporting.

Suitability

No prior experience is necessary. However, a good level of written and spoken English and an awareness of current affairs is advisable. The course will appeal to you if you have little or no formal journalistic training. Delegates in research or editorial assistant roles will find this introductory course of particular interest.

Content

developing a news sense

newspaper practice and reporting skills

newsroom terminology

working from written sources

planning and researching stories

finding an angle

targeting the reader

story structure: the 5Ws, writing an introduction and making copy effective

grammar, syntax and vocabulary

use and misuse of language; style and house style

planning interviews, sources and writing

handling press conferences

newspaper analysis

law and ethics

the newsroom in action

Duration: 1 week

Dates: See dates below

Location: Elephant & Castle