Frequently asked questions
When does it start?
We'll want you to be able to start on Friday 6th May 2011.
How long is the trainee scheme?
It's a 10 week scheme until July 2011.
How will I know how I am doing?
There will be a structured evaluation process for the length of the scheme – you will be given feedback on your performance and you will be asked to give your own feedback too.
What will I be doing?
Have a look at the details on this site to see what the scheme involves.
What hours will I work?
You will be working 09.00 – 18.00 1 day a week for 9 weeks. In addition you will take part in the production week from 27th June to 1st July, which will be 5 full days.
How much holiday will I get?
As this is a 10 week training scheme we would like to you to be available for every session.
Will my expenses be met?
We won't reimburse you for any expenses involved in getting to and from your BBC base, but any additional transport will be provided. We won’t pay for or provide meals.
Where will I be based?
You will be based in BBC Newcastle. Trainees will be based in BBC regional news and in what we call the English Regions.
I’m already working in broadcasting. Can I apply?
If you are already working as a broadcast journalist in TV, radio and online then this scheme is not aimed at you.
If you are studying media or broadcast journalism.
If by that you mean that you are currently studying, or have studied, broadcast journalism/ media at under-graduate or post graduate level then we are sorry but this scheme is not aimed at you. You will already have learnt or be learning many of the skills that we want to teach you. The scheme is designed for people without media training. Have a look at the Journalism Talent Pool and the BBC Jobs website where there may be more appropriate opportunities in the future. www.bbc.co.uk/jobs/jtp and www.bbc.co.uk/careers
I don't have any lengthy journalism experience or training. Should I still apply?
Yes! One of our aims is to find talented and creative people who might have been put off the idea of a career as a broadcast journalist. By the way, we are very keen to hear from people who have perhaps had a long-time ambition to work in broadcast news but who - for whatever reason - have been pursuing a different career.
What support will I get while I am on the scheme?
We want to do all we can to help you to succeed.
You'll be assigned a mentor, someone to support and guide you throughout the scheme. He or she will be in touch with you regularly to see how you're getting on and to offer advice and encouragement.
We will also give you coaching in how to apply for jobs within the BBC once your traineeship has come to an end.
Will I get a job at the end of the scheme?
Unfortunately, we cannot offer you a job at the end of Step Up. However, you will be in a better position to apply for media jobs at the end of the scheme.
Will I get paid?
No, this is a media project designed to give you the skills and confidence to work in news and apply for future jobs
The BBC is creating a new digital broadcast centre in the North of England as part of the MediaCityUK development at Salford Quays in Greater Manchester. Five London-based departments, including Sport, Five Live and Children’s, will be moving and will join current Manchester-based departments at the new site in 2011. This move will create a range of opportunities for those that wish to pursue a career at the BBC.
