Celebrating Ezekiel Bertrand: A Journey from Young Reporter to Level 5 Apprentice of the Year!

Ezekiel Bertrand, Level 5 Apprentice of the Year award at the NCTJ Awards.

🎉 A huge congratulations to Young Reporter Alumnus Ezekiel Bertrand, who has been honoured as Level 5 Apprentice of the Year at the #NCTJAwards!

Ezekiel completed the Young Reporter Scheme in 2023 and was one of our winners that year, securing a prize in the Interview category in the national competition at the end of the scheme. Alongside receiving prizes and a certificate, winners are also given the chance to attend a university day, where students experience what it's like to build a newspaper with other Young Reporters.

Ezekiel attending our university day at Kingston University in 2023.

It was clear at this day how he was hard working and keen to pursue a career in journalism. He applied for our apprenticeship programme and was hired by Newsquest Media Group in the summer. He sent us this email on his first day:

“Currently, I’m sat at the Newsquest office in Queens House as an apprentice reporter as I send this! Thank you so much for giving this opportunity to help me, and many other teenagers, develop our love for journalism. You played a big role in why I decided to be in this field now rather than do A-Levels. I really recommend that aspiring journalists do the Young Reporters Scheme.”

Ezekiel's journey is a story of determination, creativity, and passion, serving as a motivational example for aspiring reporters everywhere.

The Young Reporter Scheme: A Launch Pad for Future Journalists

The Young Reporter Scheme plays a pivotal role in shaping young journalists, offering them valuable experiences and a platform to display their skills. Through mentorship and hands-on opportunities, this initiative enables aspiring reporters to grow their capabilities and find success in the competitive journalism landscape.

Participants like Ezekiel write stories, conduct interviews, and learn the complexities of reporting, allowing young journalists to engage in real-world scenarios while receiving expert guidance from experienced professionals.

Our registration portal will reopen on 1 May, where schools can sign up for the upcoming academic year.