BBC Young Reporter Workshop

On Monday 5th October 2020 Year 8 students participated in a Real News Workshop, delivered by BBC Young Reporter and the BBC Academy. The BBC Young Reporter scheme gives young people a unique chance to tell their story on TV, radio, online or on social media with the help of BBC journalists, producers and programme makers.

The session was split into two halves. The first saw BBC Spotlight and South West journalist Carole Madge share her top tips for storytelling. She used an example of two young GB volleyball athletes who have found themselves stranded overseas in the midst of the pandemic.

The best stories are ‘clear, concise and conversational’. Afterwards, Year 8 were able to ask their own questions directly. This was Alice’s favourite moment. At break she commented, “The best bit so far has been interviewing the journalist and asking questions about the favourite stories she has enjoyed reporting on in the past.”

After a break we moved on to consider how we can create our own news stories by using our smartphones. Natalie Hancock, a trainer from the BBC Academy, ran us through everything we needed to know. We learned about the importance of introducing and framing our shots, exposure as well as the different video software applications. Did you know for film to be shown on social media, it must be shot horizontally?

News production is changing: it was fascinating finding out how reporters from the BBC are turning to their phones to shoot and edit stories whilst on the road.

The workshop was received extremely well by Year 8. Hollie and Lillian said, “This is a very useful experience – it gives us an insight into all the elements for making a news story.”

Though the session was delivered virtually, we made the most of the opportunity. We are extremely proud of how well the cohort has been adapting and we can’t wait to see the news stories they write, film and edit in their upcoming English lessons.

Miss Lipcznyski, Teacher of English, said, “The event was informative, engaging and inspiring– a really special insight into the world of TV journalism – even I was considering a career change! We’re so thankful to the BBC for talking to the students and sharing their wealth of knowledge. Hopefully the event has inspired some of the students to become burgeoning journalists!”

Well done everyone, and, in the spirit of the news… Stay tuned for more…

Miss Howie

Teacher of English