Students learn from top journalists in London masterclasses
15 July 2025
Falmouth University has partnered with the John Schofield Trust for the second year to give two of its Journalism & Creative Writing BA(Hons) students the unique opportunity of being mentored by industry professionals.
As part of the partnership, the third-year students, Danielle Hutchinson and Emma Vowles, got the chance to have a behind the scenes look at some of the UK’s biggest broadcast shows, including the Radio 1 Breakfast Show, Jeremy Vine on Radio 2 and The World at One on Radio 4. From meeting presenters and producers to watching the headlines rehearsed and broadcast for the News at Six, the trip was an exciting opportunity to learn more about breaking into the industry and see a real-world glimpse into a career in journalism.
During their time in London, they took part in masterclasses with leading journalists and editors from the BBC, ITV and Sky News. The masterclasses were organised by the John Schofield Trust, a charity which has partnered with Falmouth University to pair undergraduate journalists with a mentor in the industry. Danielle is being mentored by BBC News Analysis Editor Ros Atkins, a journalist who grew up in Cornwall, while Emma’s mentor is Executive Editor of BBC Verify, Lindsay McCoy.
When asked about the trip, Danielle reflected: “The masterclass sessions covered everything an aspiring journalist could wish to know about breaking into the industry, from learning how to pitch stories to working with editors and freelancing. The day was also an opportunity to network with other early-career and student journalists, chat about our experiences and support one another in our endeavours.
“We are really grateful to the John Schofield Trust for arranging the masterclasses and providing our transport, and to Ros Atkins for an exemplary tour of the BBC, introducing us to each department and sharing his insights.”
Course Leader Andy Chatfield commented: “The John Schofield Trust has partnered with us for two years now, offering would-be journalists studying Journalism & Creative Writing BA or Documentary & Editorial Photography BA the chance to gain high-quality mentorship and event opportunities like this one. I would like to also thank Helen Norman, Falmouth’s Head of Student Access and Success, who has provided financial support for this partnership.
“Danielle and Emma are both due to graduate this week and I know they will both go far, helped I am sure by the continuing connection with their mentors and the Trust.”
Applications for the next round of mentorship opportunities will be offered to students in the autumn.
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