"For several years newspapers have noticed that there is a shortage of skilled sub-editors. That is why we are supporting Journalist Works. It's a company of experienced journalists and trainers providing courses that the industry needs."
Michael Beard, Editor, The Argus.FAQs
Click on a question to see the answer:
What type of training courses does Journalist Works run?
What is the NCTJ?
Career in journalism - where can I get advice?
What is the difference between fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing) and other NCTJ Certificates in Journalism eg newspapers?
Does the fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing) cover online journalism?
What is a sub-editor?
Who should consider the fast track training to become a sub-editor?
What qualifications do I need for the fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing) Course?
What is the course fee for the fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing) Course?
Are there any other costs in addition to course fees to consider?
I'm not sure I can afford to do it?
How do I know the fast track Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing) is the right course for careers in journalism?
I am working part-time and I would like to study part-time for the fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing), one module at a time, is that possible?
Will I definitely get a job at the end of the course?
Will I only be qualified to get a job on a newspaper?
I already have a journalism/media degree. Do I still need to do a Certificate in Journalism Course?
I am already a working journalist but would now like to learn sub-editing, do you offer a course for me?
Can I talk to someone or come and have a look round before I make my decision?
How do I apply to courses?
What does the test consist of?
What do I do if my question is not here?
What sort of careers in journalism do sub-editors have in the newspaper industry?
How much can I expect to earn as a journalist?
Does a course at Journalist Works lead to a job at The Argus?
Is shorthand essential for journalists?
What type of training courses does Journalist Works run?
Journalist Works currently runs a fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing). In addition we run a number of short courses for those new to journalism and for practising journalists who want to enhance their skills. See the 'Courses' section for a full listing.
What is the NCTJ?
The National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ) provides training schemes and qualifications for the best journalism training centres in the country. The organisation's accreditation process is rigorous and requires training centres to provide a robust, professional service. NCTJ qualifications are recognised as an industry standard by editors and other employers. To find out more, go to www.nctj.com.
Where can I get career advice on becoming a journalist?
Our website has a section on careers so take a look here first. Additional advice can be found at www.nctj.com.
What is the difference between fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing) and other NCTJ Certificates in Journalism eg newspapers?
Both courses cover the topics of news writing, law and public affairs. The main difference is that the sub-editing course teaches the basics of sub-editing while the newspaper course teaches shorthand instead. We believe that our students are well placed in the job market as they can offer both reporting and sub-editing skills to employers. We can arrange for students to learn shorthand as well as sub-editing, if necessary.
Does the fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing) cover online journalism?
Yes. In response to the changing demands of the job market, we now include the latest techniques of web-based journalism. This includes sourcing stories online, blogging, user generated content, linking and tagging.
What is a sub-editor?
Sub-editors play a crucial role in every newspaper, magazine and publishing office. Their role is to ensure articles are grammatically and factually correct, cut them to fit on the page, write headings and generally make the stories as presentable as possible before sending them to print. Sub-editors need a keen eye for detail, a cool head when the pressure is on, excellent command of language and a thorough understanding of media law. Editors are constantly on the look out for decent subs with all of the above skills and this is why the NCTJ has created a course specifically aimed at training journalists in this specialist field.
Who should consider the fast track training to become a sub-editor?
What qualifications do I need for the fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing) Course?
It depends. Demonstrate to us that you have a good command of English, that you are genuine about your desire to get a job in this demanding and competitive industry and that you are prepared to work hard on the course. You will usually need a minimum of two A levels, and most students have degrees, but we also attract gap-year students or mature applicants without formal qualifications, sometimes a degree in the university of life can mean you are up to speed to start the course.
What is the course fee for the fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing) Course?
Cost of course is £2,950 plus VAT, which includes the cost of all exams.
Are there any other costs in addition to course fees to consider?
There are some books that support the course which we recommend you buy and these will cost you around £60.
I'm not sure I can afford to do it?
This is an investment in your future - there are not many courses where you walk in unqualified and leave in just 12 weeks fully skilled to get a job in journalism.
There are some opportunities for financial support with course fees:
The Journalism Diversity Fund provides grants for trainee journalists from diverse backgrounds. They want to support single parents, people with disabilities or anyone who cannot afford to do the course any other way. One of our students has applied successfully and had his whole course fees paid. Check it out on www.journalismdiversityfund.co.uk or call the NCTJ on 01799 544014.
The National Union of Journalists wants to encourage more black journalists into the industry via The George Viner Memorial Fund - and they are taking applications for grants now. Go to www.georgeviner.org.uk/Apply.html to find out more.
If you are claiming benefit or are a lone parent you can find out about the possibility of support with fees from your local Job Centre.
How do I know the fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing) is the right course for me?
If you are not sure, contact us with your questions and we will answer them quickly and honestly. You can also attend a one-day taster workshop we run regularly, which helps you to understand what it is like to be a journalist.
I am working part-time and I would like to study part-time for the fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing), one module at a time, is that possible?
Yes, we offer all the modules as stand-alone courses. For example, you could study practical journalism for two mornings a week at first, and then study the sub-editing module on the next course, and the next two modules on the third course, so you would be completely qualified within a year. Or you could take two modules on two courses and get the Certificate in 22 weeks. You choose. Contact us on info@journalistworks.co.uk or phone on 01273 324351 to talk through the options.
Will I definitely get a job at the end of the course?
Ah, that's crystal ball territory. What we can tell you is that you will be well qualified and in a very strong position to get a job as a sub-editor. If you pass your exams and are prepared to be flexible, editors will want you. At the end of the course you have your qualifications plus a portfolio of work and good work experience under your belt, that should get you to interview stage. The rest is up to you!
Will I only be qualified to get a job on a newspaper?
No, you'll be qualified to get a job wherever good writing skills are required: newspapers, magazines, public relations companies, publishers, marketing agencies, newsletters, websites and broadcasting companies.
I already have a journalism/media degree. Do I still need to do a Certificate in Journalism Course?
But have you managed to get a job yet? Many degrees and qualifications do not equip you with specific skills required for employment. The fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing) does.
I am already a working journalist but would now like to learn sub-editing, do you offer a course for me?
Yes! Sign up for the Part time Diploma in Sub-editing. It leads to the NCTJ Sub-Editing Exam and will teach you how to lay out pages with QuarkXpress and write headlines. For more details, click on Sub-Editing Course from the courses page.
Can I talk to someone or come and have a look round before I make my decision?
Yes, of course. Please email your questions to info@journalistworks.co.uk or give us a ring on 01273 324351. You can then book a time to come and meet us at our premises in Argus House, Brighton.
How do I apply to courses?
You can fill out our application forms online or email us: info@journalistworks.co.uk For the fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing) there is a selection process to gain a place on the course. Send in your application and, as long as you meet the basic criteria, you will be invited for an interview and test.
What does the test consist of?
The test takes an hour and a half and consists of a passage full of errors in spelling and punctuation to correct and some material to re-write in to a news story. We don't expect you to be perfect already, otherwise you wouldn't need to come on the course, just to show an aptitude for journalism.
What do I do if my question is not here?
Feel free to telephone or email us. Our phone number is 01273 324351. You can email us at info@journalistworks.co.uk
What's the career path of a newspaper journalist?
Your ultimate aim is the NCTJ's National Certificate Examination (NCE). This is the qualification most editors in Britain agree is the best proof a journalist has been properly trained. To get it, you have to have passed, at A-C, all the NCTJ Preliminary exams (journalism, subbing, law and public affairs); do at least 18 months' paid work as a trainee journalist on a newspaper; compile an NCTJ portfolio of story cuttings and pass the final NCTJ National Certificate Examination. The full programme normally takes about two years and then you become a Senior Journalist.
How much can I expect to earn as a journalist?
It all depends on where you work. But no trainee journalist does it for the money! Typical starting salaries for careers in journalism on a weekly newspaper are £16,000, on a daily regional they are about £18,000. The money goes up when you become a senior and editors and people in PR can earn more than £50,000. Natasha Kaplinsky and other top names can earn millions...
Does a course at Journalist Works lead to a job at the Argus?
We can't promise you a job at The Argus at the end of the course, nor can we promise you a job in Brighton. But if you pass your exams, build a good portfolio , do some work experience and actively apply for lots of positions over a wide area you will get a job in journalism. And five people have gained full-time jobs at The Argus in the last year, straight off the course.
Is shorthand essential for journalists?
Not for sub-editors. That's why our fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing) includes a sub-editing module instead of a shorthand module. Reporters on magazines, web sites, radio and TV rarely have shorthand. Reporters on newspapers tend to need shorthand, because they cover courts and council meetings where dictaphones are not allowed however, if you join our course we can get you a discount with local shorthand providers (Teeline, Pitman, 21c).
What type of training courses does Journalist Works run?
What is the NCTJ?
Career in journalism - where can I get advice?
What is the difference between fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing) and other NCTJ Certificates in Journalism eg newspapers?
Does the fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing) cover online journalism?
What is a sub-editor?
Who should consider the fast track training to become a sub-editor?
What qualifications do I need for the fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing) Course?
What is the course fee for the fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing) Course?
Are there any other costs in addition to course fees to consider?
I'm not sure I can afford to do it?
How do I know the fast track Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing) is the right course for careers in journalism?
I am working part-time and I would like to study part-time for the fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing), one module at a time, is that possible?
Will I definitely get a job at the end of the course?
Will I only be qualified to get a job on a newspaper?
I already have a journalism/media degree. Do I still need to do a Certificate in Journalism Course?
I am already a working journalist but would now like to learn sub-editing, do you offer a course for me?
Can I talk to someone or come and have a look round before I make my decision?
How do I apply to courses?
What does the test consist of?
What do I do if my question is not here?
What sort of careers in journalism do sub-editors have in the newspaper industry?
How much can I expect to earn as a journalist?
Does a course at Journalist Works lead to a job at The Argus?
Is shorthand essential for journalists?
What type of training courses does Journalist Works run?
Journalist Works currently runs a fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing). In addition we run a number of short courses for those new to journalism and for practising journalists who want to enhance their skills. See the 'Courses' section for a full listing.
What is the NCTJ?
The National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ) provides training schemes and qualifications for the best journalism training centres in the country. The organisation's accreditation process is rigorous and requires training centres to provide a robust, professional service. NCTJ qualifications are recognised as an industry standard by editors and other employers. To find out more, go to www.nctj.com.
Where can I get career advice on becoming a journalist?
Our website has a section on careers so take a look here first. Additional advice can be found at www.nctj.com.
What is the difference between fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing) and other NCTJ Certificates in Journalism eg newspapers?
Both courses cover the topics of news writing, law and public affairs. The main difference is that the sub-editing course teaches the basics of sub-editing while the newspaper course teaches shorthand instead. We believe that our students are well placed in the job market as they can offer both reporting and sub-editing skills to employers. We can arrange for students to learn shorthand as well as sub-editing, if necessary.
Does the fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing) cover online journalism?
Yes. In response to the changing demands of the job market, we now include the latest techniques of web-based journalism. This includes sourcing stories online, blogging, user generated content, linking and tagging.
What is a sub-editor?
Sub-editors play a crucial role in every newspaper, magazine and publishing office. Their role is to ensure articles are grammatically and factually correct, cut them to fit on the page, write headings and generally make the stories as presentable as possible before sending them to print. Sub-editors need a keen eye for detail, a cool head when the pressure is on, excellent command of language and a thorough understanding of media law. Editors are constantly on the look out for decent subs with all of the above skills and this is why the NCTJ has created a course specifically aimed at training journalists in this specialist field.
Who should consider the fast track training to become a sub-editor?
- Anyone who loves words
- Graduates who want to get a foot on the first rung on the ladder to a career as a journalist
- Sixth formers considering their options
- Career changers
- People already working in newspaper offices who would like to switch to an editorial role
- Editors and contributors to newsletters, other publications or websites
- Everyone who would like to hone their writing skills and earn a living from them
What qualifications do I need for the fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing) Course?
It depends. Demonstrate to us that you have a good command of English, that you are genuine about your desire to get a job in this demanding and competitive industry and that you are prepared to work hard on the course. You will usually need a minimum of two A levels, and most students have degrees, but we also attract gap-year students or mature applicants without formal qualifications, sometimes a degree in the university of life can mean you are up to speed to start the course.
What is the course fee for the fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing) Course?
Cost of course is £2,950 plus VAT, which includes the cost of all exams.
Are there any other costs in addition to course fees to consider?
There are some books that support the course which we recommend you buy and these will cost you around £60.
I'm not sure I can afford to do it?
This is an investment in your future - there are not many courses where you walk in unqualified and leave in just 12 weeks fully skilled to get a job in journalism.
There are some opportunities for financial support with course fees:
The Journalism Diversity Fund provides grants for trainee journalists from diverse backgrounds. They want to support single parents, people with disabilities or anyone who cannot afford to do the course any other way. One of our students has applied successfully and had his whole course fees paid. Check it out on www.journalismdiversityfund.co.uk or call the NCTJ on 01799 544014.
The National Union of Journalists wants to encourage more black journalists into the industry via The George Viner Memorial Fund - and they are taking applications for grants now. Go to www.georgeviner.org.uk/Apply.html to find out more.
If you are claiming benefit or are a lone parent you can find out about the possibility of support with fees from your local Job Centre.
How do I know the fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing) is the right course for me?
If you are not sure, contact us with your questions and we will answer them quickly and honestly. You can also attend a one-day taster workshop we run regularly, which helps you to understand what it is like to be a journalist.
I am working part-time and I would like to study part-time for the fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing), one module at a time, is that possible?
Yes, we offer all the modules as stand-alone courses. For example, you could study practical journalism for two mornings a week at first, and then study the sub-editing module on the next course, and the next two modules on the third course, so you would be completely qualified within a year. Or you could take two modules on two courses and get the Certificate in 22 weeks. You choose. Contact us on info@journalistworks.co.uk or phone on 01273 324351 to talk through the options.
Will I definitely get a job at the end of the course?
Ah, that's crystal ball territory. What we can tell you is that you will be well qualified and in a very strong position to get a job as a sub-editor. If you pass your exams and are prepared to be flexible, editors will want you. At the end of the course you have your qualifications plus a portfolio of work and good work experience under your belt, that should get you to interview stage. The rest is up to you!
Will I only be qualified to get a job on a newspaper?
No, you'll be qualified to get a job wherever good writing skills are required: newspapers, magazines, public relations companies, publishers, marketing agencies, newsletters, websites and broadcasting companies.
I already have a journalism/media degree. Do I still need to do a Certificate in Journalism Course?
But have you managed to get a job yet? Many degrees and qualifications do not equip you with specific skills required for employment. The fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing) does.
I am already a working journalist but would now like to learn sub-editing, do you offer a course for me?
Yes! Sign up for the Part time Diploma in Sub-editing. It leads to the NCTJ Sub-Editing Exam and will teach you how to lay out pages with QuarkXpress and write headlines. For more details, click on Sub-Editing Course from the courses page.
Can I talk to someone or come and have a look round before I make my decision?
Yes, of course. Please email your questions to info@journalistworks.co.uk or give us a ring on 01273 324351. You can then book a time to come and meet us at our premises in Argus House, Brighton.
How do I apply to courses?
You can fill out our application forms online or email us: info@journalistworks.co.uk For the fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing) there is a selection process to gain a place on the course. Send in your application and, as long as you meet the basic criteria, you will be invited for an interview and test.
What does the test consist of?
The test takes an hour and a half and consists of a passage full of errors in spelling and punctuation to correct and some material to re-write in to a news story. We don't expect you to be perfect already, otherwise you wouldn't need to come on the course, just to show an aptitude for journalism.
What do I do if my question is not here?
Feel free to telephone or email us. Our phone number is 01273 324351. You can email us at info@journalistworks.co.uk
What's the career path of a newspaper journalist?
Your ultimate aim is the NCTJ's National Certificate Examination (NCE). This is the qualification most editors in Britain agree is the best proof a journalist has been properly trained. To get it, you have to have passed, at A-C, all the NCTJ Preliminary exams (journalism, subbing, law and public affairs); do at least 18 months' paid work as a trainee journalist on a newspaper; compile an NCTJ portfolio of story cuttings and pass the final NCTJ National Certificate Examination. The full programme normally takes about two years and then you become a Senior Journalist.
How much can I expect to earn as a journalist?
It all depends on where you work. But no trainee journalist does it for the money! Typical starting salaries for careers in journalism on a weekly newspaper are £16,000, on a daily regional they are about £18,000. The money goes up when you become a senior and editors and people in PR can earn more than £50,000. Natasha Kaplinsky and other top names can earn millions...
Does a course at Journalist Works lead to a job at the Argus?
We can't promise you a job at The Argus at the end of the course, nor can we promise you a job in Brighton. But if you pass your exams, build a good portfolio , do some work experience and actively apply for lots of positions over a wide area you will get a job in journalism. And five people have gained full-time jobs at The Argus in the last year, straight off the course.
Is shorthand essential for journalists?
Not for sub-editors. That's why our fast track NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Sub-editing) includes a sub-editing module instead of a shorthand module. Reporters on magazines, web sites, radio and TV rarely have shorthand. Reporters on newspapers tend to need shorthand, because they cover courts and council meetings where dictaphones are not allowed however, if you join our course we can get you a discount with local shorthand providers (Teeline, Pitman, 21c).
