The ODL QC, the independent body responsible for standards in open and distance learning, has accredited the NCTJ (National Council for the Training of Journalists) for the ninth year running.

ODL QC accreditation is awarded in recognition of excellence. During the accreditation assessment, providers must prove that all the elements are in place to ensure an exemplary service to learners. Accredited providers submit to ongoing monitoring, and are re-assessed at least every 3 years. NCTJ yesterday demonstrated that it remains amongst the elite in distance learning.

Commenting on this achievement, ODL QC Chief Executive David Morley said,
“The NCTJ is the lead body for the training of UK journalists. The great strengths of its provision lie in the compass and coverage of the materials, which have the professionalism one would expect from such an organisation.”

The NCTJ offers three distance learning courses, which provide a comprehensive range of underpinning knowledge and basic skills, including subbing, typography, layout, media law, public affairs, and general writing.

Writing for the Periodical Press and Basics of Sub-editing courses were both written by Fabian Acker, a former editor, and former head of journalism training at Reed Magazines. NCTJ also offer a self-assessed Foundation Course in Newspaper Journalism.

These courses augment the NCTJ’s full-time pre-entry, direct-entry and block-release training at 32 universities and colleges throughout Britain. The NCTJ also provides a programme of short courses for those wishing to develop new skills or to just keep themselves updated.

Amongst the thousands of journalists who have attended NCTJ courses and sat their exams are many well-known media celebrities - some household names.

Uptake of the courses has more than doubled since the original accreditation by ODL QC. Learners worldwide recognise the ODL QC Quality Mark, and use it to identify outstanding course providers.

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Further details from:

Elspeth Harrison at ODL QC on
020 7612 7090 or elspeth@odlqc.org.uk.

Visit the NCTJ’s website at www.nctj.com
Contact the NCTJ on 01279 430009, or info@nctj.com