Student journalism is worth protecting and supporting because what goes on in our universities and colleges is important. As well as being diverse communities in their own right, they are also often significant employers and financial contributors to their local area so it is important that what goes on in them is scrutinised and reported on. Good journalism is crucial in a democracy to shine a light on what’s going on.

Student journalism gave me the basic skills I consider to be essential for a journalist. But most importantly I made friends and contacts throughout my training who became a significant part of my professional network that I still turn to today. The standard of journalist and reporting is improved by ensuring people joining the industry get professional training. The quality increases and errors are reduced. Even for those who break into the industry organically, taking the time to learn the basics through student journalism only improves output and performance.

The SPA helped me connect with and learn from other student journalists - both as a student myself and later as a professional volunteering for the organisation. There ca be so many barriers for young people from less privileged backgrounds entering the indsutry, and the SPA is a great network, source of support and force for diversity. I’m proud to continue to support them now I’m years into my career.