BBC Journalism Trainee Scheme opens for applications

The BBC Journalism Trainee Scheme (JTS), which offers year-long paid training at the BBC across TV, radio and online journalism, is now open for applications.

The award-winning scheme attracts around 3,000 applicants each year. It provides a thorough grounding in journalism thanks to training and work placements across the BBC’s regional and national centres.

This year, potential applicants have until 8 October to complete the online entry form. If they pass the subsequent online aptitude test and are shortlisted, they are invited to the BBC for a rigorous interview and assessment day in December. The scheme commences in March 2013.

Applications are welcome from a wide variety of people. Those not currently working in journalism are encouraged to apply if they write well and know how to find a story, and personal qualities such as talent, potential and determination are considered more important than academic background.

Following a successful event in Wales this September, the scheme is being launched tonight at MediaCityUK in Salford with an introductory evening hosted by BBC Radio 5 Live presenter Shelagh Fogarty. Attendees will be fully briefed on the JTS and other BBC Academy trainee schemes, meet current journalism trainees, and take part in workshops on how to make the most of their application.

“It’s all part our vision to make the BBC more accessible for people who haven’t previously thought it was for them,” says Claire Prosser, JTS manager. “Holding events where people can meet BBC journalists and previous trainees really helps break down barriers and encourages them to reassess what they think they might be capable of.”

Although not guaranteed a job afterwards, trainees will be ready by the end of the course to apply for broadcast journalism vacancies in radio, TV or online. More than 90% of former trainees remain working within the BBC, with JTS alumni currently working everywhere from Newsnight to the World Service.

For more on the JTS, see the newly launched website or follow @BBCJTS on Twitter.

Read about the experiences of one 2012 JTS trainee.