The Role

This scheme, now in itssecond year, is designed to help under-represented groups start a career in journalism. If you do not have a degree but dream of being a journalist, this apprenticeship could be for you.

As part of our commitment to diversity in the FT newsroom, this apprenticeship is only open to those without a degree. If you are planning to go to university, have started a degree course or have a degree, you are not eligible to apply. 

About the Financial Times

Across the FT Group, our people are united by a mission to deliver world-class information, news and services to our global audiences. Our international, award-winning editorial team represents the gold standard in journalism, seeking depth, originality and balance that differentiates us from the pack and engages our subscribers. Click here to find out more about the FT.

This apprenticeship is a golden opportunity to study for an intensive NCTJ journalism qualification while working at the Manchester Evening News and the FT, under the 18 month scheme. 

We are looking for people who would like to develop a deep knowledge of current affairs and business, are curious, persistent, seek out the truth and can show they are suited to working to the tight deadlines and pressures of a modern newsroom. They should also be able to adapt to different environments - the apprenticeship involves living, at different times, in London and Manchester.

Due to the partnership with M.E.N., we are particularly interested in applications from candidates living in the Greater Manchester area.

What we are offering

• Minimum London living wage
• Paid-for study towards the intensive NCTJ level 5 qualification through the apprenticeship scheme
• On the job training at the Manchester Evening News and the FT
• Accommodation subsidy available
• 30 days annual leave
• A dedicated FT mentor throughout the programme
• Access to FT Employee Networks

What you’ll do

Begin with4 months intensive study in London for the NCTJ level 5 journalist qualification (this industry-recognised standard is the equivalent of second year university and includes the NCTJ diploma). One day a week will be spent in the Financial Times’ London newsroom.

• You will then spend 7 months training as a reporter in Manchester with the Manchester Evening News.
• Return to London to spend 4 months training in a Financial Times specialist publication, such as Investors Chronicle.
• A further 3 months working alongside FT journalists in the field and newsroom

Timings may be subject to change

Who we are looking for

• You will be aged 18 years or over by 1 January 2025
• Have been awarded Level 3 qualifications upon application. *Suitable qualifications include:
  • 2 A levels
  • 4 AS levels
  • NVQ
  • BTEC
  • Applied General Qualification
  • Scottish higher qualifications
  • International Baccalaureate diploma
  • Access to higher education diploma
  • T Level
  • Tech level
• Have achieved a minimum GCSE grade of 5 for Maths and 7 for English language 
• Have the right to work in the UK 

To succeed, you must be 

• Curious about people, governments, business and money
• Open-minded and interested in different perspectives
• A truth-seeker
• A quick learner who is diligent and attentive to detail
• Resourceful, resilient and flexible
• Determined and have initiative 
• An excellent communicator, especiallywritten and spoken English
• Able to adapt to, and thrive in, different environments (the apprenticeship involves living, at different times, in London and Manchester) 

To apply, please submit

• CV: this must include:
  • The dates you took your GCSEs and A levels (or equivalent)
  • Your exam grades 
  • Work experience to date
  • Any language, data and social media skills 
• Cover Letter: Please tell us:
  • Why you think you’d make a great reporter 
  • Why we should pick you.
  • Tell us also about a journalist you admire from any publication and why. 
• The deadline for applications is 19 September 2024 
• Shortlisted candidates will be informed and asked to complete a writing exercise

How we work

The FT’s hybrid setup means staff are expected to come into the office a minimum of  3 days a week, including Tuesday-Thursday.

The FT headquarters is located across the street from St. Paul’s Cathedral and is easily accessible from all corners of London. There are the main train terminals such as Liverpool Street, Moorgate, Blackfriars, City Thameslink or Waterloo all situated within walking distance or there are several tube stations within a few minutes walk such as Mansion House, St. Paul’s and Bank. 

The Manchester Evening News is based in Oldham, close to Chadderton Metrolink stop and accessible by bus. We also work on a hybrid model with Tuesday-Thursday office based, but we would hope you would spend as much time as possible out on your patch once you have settled in. All our junior reporters are mentored by a senior reporter and a content editor to support fast development.

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion in the workplace

The FT and the MEN are committed to providing an inclusive working environment for all. We are equal opportunity employers, seeking to recruit and appoint the best talent regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, socio-economic background, religion and/or belief. We believe that a supportive workplace is one where employees feel they can be themselves at work and have the flexibility they need to meet their personal needs. 

Please let us know if you require any reasonable adjustments as part of the application process or to enable you to attend an interview. 

About the Manchester Evening News

The Manchester Evening News is the biggest regional news website in the country, larger than some national brands. We tell the stories that matter to the people of Greater Manchester and beyond. Our journalism is rooted in hard news reporting, people-focused real life features, and issue-led campaigns. We have a strong cost of living, shopping, what’s on and TV offering. 

The MEN also  provides a unique northern perspective on national news and issues. Our site has been widely recognised with industry awards.

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