Observer journalism school

Closing date for applications: Sunday 26th April 2026 at 5.00pm

Location: London – The Observer newsroom, 22 Berners Street, London, W1T 3LP

Program dates: Monday 15th June – Saturday 20th June

Duration: 1 week

Curious about journalism and want to learn how stories are found, shaped, and shared? Join the Observer for a week-long, hands-on programme designed to give you practical skills, insider insight, and a behind-the-scenes look at the newsroom in action.

The Observer believes journalism thrives when it reflects the richness and diversity of the society it serves. The Observer Journalism School is a week-long intensive, practical training experience where students will take part in discussions, presentations and assignments led by Observer editors and journalists. Students will have the opportunity to pitch and write stories, take part in editorial meetings and public discussions, and see how Observer journalism works. Wherever possible, each student will also be assigned a mentor based on their interests, such as sports, podcasts, or other areas.

The programme aims to open doors for individuals who might otherwise find them closed. It is particularly keen to hear from those who may have faced barriers or whose voices have too often gone unheard in the industry. The Observer Journalism School strives to create an inclusive learning environment: a place where everyone is valued, supported, and empowered to fulfil their potential. The programme seeks to nurture emerging journalists who bring fresh perspectives, untold stories, and new energy to the newsroom.

What you will learn

Topics students may explore during The Observer Journalism School include:

• What makes the news
• How to find a story
• How to tell stories in different formats (audio, video, print)
• How to conduct an interview and run an investigation
• How to write a review
• How to design the news
• The business model of news

Key details

• The programme will run for one week from Monday 15th June to Saturday 20th June
• The programme days will begin at 9.00am and finish between 5.00pm and 6.00pm. On the Saturday, hours may vary slightly depending on the print schedule, with a later start of around 10.30–11.00am and the option to stay until the paper goes to print at approximately 6.00–7.00pm.
• Breakfast and lunch will be provided and a £15 stipend is offered for dinner
• Accommodation is available for successful applicants joining the programme from outside of London
  

What we are looking for

• A genuine interest in journalism and storytelling, with a curiosity for how stories are developed
• An eagerness to learn and motivation to gain practical experience and develop newsroom skills
• Willingness to engage actively in discussions, workshops, and assignments
• Applicants should be over 18 at the time of the programme
• No formal journalism training is required, but some knowledge or informal experience of journalism would be helpful. This could be demonstrated through student publications, local or community news, personal blogs, or other relevant projects.

We welcome applications from anyone who believes this programme could help them access opportunities they might not otherwise have, and we are especially keen to support those who have not previously had the chance to gain professional experience in journalism. what matters most are your answers to the application questions,

To apply

• Log in to your Creative Access account or register today to apply for this opportunity
• Upload your CV and answers to the application questions below in one document (applications without answers will not be accepted)
• A cover letter is not required for this opportunity
• Once submitted, you can no longer amend your application, so proof-read carefully
• Do not contact the company directly
• Please email any queries about this role to Creative Access at this address: recruit@creativeaccess.org.uk

Application questions

We’re really keen to hear your answers to the following questions, as these give us a sense of how you think, the ideas you bring, and your way of expressing yourself in writing.

1. What's a story from your own community, neighbourhood, or personal experience that you think deserves to be told? (up to 250 words)
2. Tell us about a piece of journalism, a journalist, or a publication that has made you think differently about something. What changed for you, and why? (up to 250 words)
3. Why do you want to attend The Observer Journalism School, and what are you hoping to learn the most? (up to 250 words)

Note on AI: As we’re keen to hear your genuine voice and way of telling stories and presenting ideas, please refrain from using AI tools to write your application. Our team will be monitoring applications for AI usage during the review process.

We welcome and encourage applications from candidates who are under-represented in the creative industries. This includes, but is not limited to, individuals who identify as Black, Asian, or from other ethnically diverse backgrounds, or people of any ethnicity who belong to the following under-represented groups: disabled people, people with the characteristic of gender reassignment, individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, carers and asylum seekers.