Apply to The i Paper's Talent Scheme to become our next apprentice – earn while you learn journalism

The i  Paper is recruiting two apprentices to complete a diploma in journalism and gain invaluable, credible experience within our busy national newsroom.

This two-year programme, aimed at school and college leavers who would otherwise face barriers to a career in journalism, offers structured on-the-job training, a nationally recognised journalism qualification (in partnership with PA Media Academy), and mentoring from The i Paper’s experienced journalists and editors.

Beginning in February 2027, each successful apprentice will be paid a fixed salary for two years and receive fully funded tuition throughout the scheme.

Oliver Duff, The i Paper’s Editor-in-chief, said: “If you think you have what it takes, our apprentice scheme offers a proven pathway into journalism.

"We welcome applicants from all walks of life who share a passion for great storytelling – and who are motivated to succeed.”

Trainees will work towards achieving their Level 5 Journalism Apprenticeship, incorporating the NCTJ Diploma in Journalism (the gold standard qualification for entry-level journalists in the UK), and a final assessment project.

Each apprentice will complete 6 weeks of intensive training with our partner PA Media Academy, followed by a 13-week programme of PA training from Monday to Thursday, with Fridays spent in The i Paper’s newsroom.

Trainees will then work in The i Paper newsroom for the remainder of the two-year apprenticeship, alongside completing their PA exams and final project.

One of our 2025 journalism apprentices, Matthew Bailey, said: “The apprenticeship has given me the skills and confidence to produce pieces of journalism that I am truly proud of, and that I never thought I would be writing so early in my career.

“The experience I have gained through my time on the different desks has been invaluable and this, alongside completing my journalism diploma, has supercharged my abilities as a journalist.”

You do not need journalism experience to apply, but you should demonstrate why you believe journalism is the pathway for you.

Please apply with your CV, cover letter, and 300 words on stories or issues that you believe should be better highlighted in the media.

If you would like to add a video in support of your application, you can do this via the main application website.

Candidates must have A-levels and/or a BTEC Level 3 as a qualification requirement.

Applications are open now with a deadline of Monday 7 December. The apprenticeship scheme starts on 15 February 2027, with successful applicants being notified of the outcome by 22 January 2027. Candidates should be available for interview in early January 2027.

Please direct any questions to  apprentices@theipaper.com

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