Apprentice journalist Marcus McQuilton, 22, is working for the Farnham Herald series, along with the Woking News & Mail, as his first experience of journalism having previously worked in catering.
Marcus talks about the appeal of working in a multimedia training role for Tindle and the exciting opportunities he has already had working with us, which defy preconceptions about apprenticeships being limited to menial duties.
What are the main responsibilities in your role?
In my role I have a range of responsibilities. I am asked to help get photos and videos, getting out to places to cover stories for editorial content. Being from a different generation I am comfortable editing videos and can develop interactive content to appear on our websites. I interview people about their stories and look at the national news stories to see how they are impacting people locally.
As an apprentice reporter, I am not making coffees and teas, which is a massive misconception. I have had opportunities like filming video of the location production in Alton for the new film starring Gerard Butler. During the General Election when then Prime Minister Rishi Sunak visited a hospital in Woking I was sent along. I was in front of the Prime Minister asking him questions, which was an experience I never thought I would have. I will never forget that.
What jobs did you have before you joined the company?
Before I joined was working in catering for a government department. I had started out washing dishes and teenage jobs, then I went to university but unfortunately, I had to leave after my second year so I went back to working in catering. I wanted a role in journalism but there were limited opportunities. I am 22 and live locally to Farnham so I was pleased to see there was an opportunity with Tindle to work and study.
What was the appeal of joining the company?
The opportunity that this role offered was perfect. I was desperate to get my National Council for the Training of Journalists training and to work in local news so when I saw the apprenticeship available with Tindle it felt like the stars had aligned. The office is a 10 minute drive from home and I get to work in an area which I know. The opportunities which I have had so far have been fantastic.
What does a typical week in your role involve?
I work Tuesday to Friday and have Mondays for distance learning with the NCTJ centre in Darlington. The staff here have been very helpful and have given feedback on my progress. Doing the training alongside it has been great as I can work on areas like law as they come up at work. When we had riots in Aldershot we had legal proceedings to cover, which meant I could use my training. You learn the basics and then suddenly find you are using it for real. I am learning on the job which means the training becomes natural for you.
How does your work fit into the wider business?
The staff have confidence in me to do stories which builds my experience. I work with the digital team and am given digital tips and training. I work with the chief reporter on my stories and ideas. We are always looking at ways we can grow digital engagement especially on video. I engage with the other trainees and apprentice reporters even though we are in different regions. We share our experiences and message each other about our learning. I am in constant communication with colleagues including sport journalists. I work with the advertising team as we keep each other informed about what is going on locally and share contacts for stories and commercial opportunities. It is a great atmosphere and I enjoy coming to work every day.
What do you enjoy about working for Tindle?
Some of the things I have done in this role have been a baptism of fire. I have been given some of the best stories to work on, interviewing famous people and visiting places like film sets. I feel valued by the team here. My family were really proud that I got to meet the Prime Minister as part of my work.
What are your interests outside of work?
I am keen on politics and global affairs. I am hooked on news here and abroad. I love sport. I play cricket for Farnham Cricket Club. I am a bowler but I have batted more this season. I also love football, rugby, Formula 1 and the Olympics.