Josh McAllister has become the latest aspiring sports journalist to benefit from a Work Based Learning stint at JDG.
The University of Chester student, from Blackpool, spent five weeks in the office with the team during the summer and has since stayed on to contribute on Love Rugby League and other projects, including filming some of the latest JDG videos.
Since JDG was formed in 2010, it has provided five-week placements for no fewer than 10 students as part of their studies, to help get them ready for a career in the field.
A number of those have gone on to get full-time jobs in sport, including two current Super League media managers.
James Gordon, JDG director, said: “A placement helped me to get my foot on the ladder in terms of a career in sport, and so I am always keen to provide opportunities and pass on advice and knowledge.
“Josh is one of the finest student placements we’ve had and the fact he’s continued to contribute to the team since is indicative of this.
“He has been able to explore other opportunities with Swinton Lions rugby league club as a result of his placement with us, and we’re sure he’ll continue to build an impressive CV before he graduates next summer.
“Being Warrington based, we have shared a great link with the University of Chester since meeting their then Principal and staff at the Warrington Business Awards in 2011.
“I’d like to thank Dianne Noon from the Work Based Learning team, and also sports journalism tutor David Randles for their ongoing support and communication, and we are happy to provide this insight in to the professional world.”
During his placement, Josh worked predominantly on the Love Rugby League website, which is now part of the Planet Sport network, conducting interviews and producing news and features.
Josh said: “My time at on placement was definitely one that benefited me both as a student and as a trainee sports journalist.
“I spent five weeks in the office, writing pieces from breaking news, features and interviewing some of the sport’s most famous names.
“I picked up a lot of skills on placement, and arguably more importantly, a lot of contacts.
“James and the team helped with my writing but also introduced me to some people where I have thrived as a journalist and continue to work.
“I now volunteer for Championship outfit Swinton Lions, and carry on where I can to help on Love Rugby League.
“I also recently discovered that one of my pieces whilst on placement is within the top ten most viewed pieces of all time, which is incredible for a student like myself.
“I must thanks James and all of his team for accepting my placement, helping me along the way and even now – 6 months later.”
For more information on Work Based Learning at the University of Chester, visit www.chester.ac.uk/wbl
We are currently accepting applications for Work Based Learning in 2019 from University of Chester students. However, students from other institutions wanting work placement opportunities can also get in touch to express an interest.
