Young journos scoop awards (From News Shopper)

Young journos scoop awards

12:14pm Wednesday 11th July 2012 in Greenwich news By Sarah Trotter

THE BEST student journalists from across south east London were rewarded for their efforts at the Young Reporter Awards 2012.

The 11 winners attended a ceremony at Newsquest’s offices in Sutton on June 28 to collect their awards.

They had beaten off competition from almost 600 youngsters at 70 schools taking part in the young reporter scheme set up by this newspaper and sister papers four years ago.

The winning students, who attended the event with parents and teachers, were awarded certificates and prizes, including Kindle Touch Wi-fis for those winning the top award of best reporter, such as Rebecca Compton, from Langley Park School for Boys, for the year 12 and 13 age group.

Star reporter Rebecca Compton said: “I have greatly enjoyed the whole experience of writing, from sourcing interviewees and creating articles to working to deadlines and seeing my work in print.

“I would recommend the scheme to anybody with an interest in reporting or journalism as it helps to develop your writing skills.”

Bexleyheath Academy’s Georgina Tewogbade won the year 12 and 13 category for most web hits.

She said: “Writing articles for News Shopper has been one of the best experiences in my life. I have gained more of an awareness of the negative and positive activities that occur in my local area.”

They also got the chance to meet staff from the University of Roehampton, which sponsored the awards, and real young journalists who advised them on what life is like as a news reporter.

Group editor Andrew Parkes, who helped present the awards, said: “I am thoroughly delighted with the standard of entries this year and offer my sincere congratulations to the winners and all who took part.

The awards are growing each year and they offer a great chance for young people to tackle some serious journalism.”

Last month the scheme was shortlisted for a national Online Media award and it has received high praise from teachers at participating schools.

Director of work-related curriculum at Bromley High School Jayne Murphy said: “When asked what they [students] have enjoyed most about taking part in the scheme, the answer is usually seeing their articles online.

This scheme is invaluable in enhancing CVs and higher education applications.”

To find out more about the awards visit our online edition at newsshopper.co.uk/eedition/