BBC Schools News Report

BBC School Report results in a soar in confidence

Each year, students take part in the BBC News School Report. This involves students following the same procedures as professional journalists: news gathering, prioritising stories, writing, editing and broadcasting. Again the skills learned were immense including independent research, collaboration, open questions, working to deadlines and précis. 

This is a highly prestigious flagship project whereby the BBC devote a great deal of TV and radio airtime live across the country. In 2007 Manchester was chosen as the focal point of the broadcast and Manchester Academy students played a central role.

Most of the preparatory work took place at the local City Learning Centre (CLC) on Denmark Road. Fifteen students were given the marvellous opportunity of working with radio journalists from the BBC in London. Three weeks prior to the big broadcast day the students were involved in various news gathering activities such as visiting computer-game manufacturer Juice in Warrington to test the latest games, interviewing the Leader of Manchester City Council and preparing questions for teen-popper Li’l Chris, who was to visit the CLC on the big day.

These projects that go on outside of the classroom result in a soar in confidence and give a glimpse into future careers in the media and journalism.

Learning outside the classroom is an enriching and rewarding experience for students and staff alike. The classroom provides the solid bedrock of learning; the projects build upon this foundation and pay-back the initial investment of time and effort with interest.