Bristol NUJ has rewarded three city graduates with cash prizes in what is hoped will be an annual award scheme for journalism students at the University of the West of England.
The trio – Daniel Calver, Charlotte Harman and Laura-Kate Howells – were each presented with cheques for £50 by branch chair Paul Breeden at Bristol Cathedral, scene of the annual graduation ceremonies for several thousand UWE students.
Journalism is an increasingly popular course at UWE, attracting as many as 100 students a year, and Bristol NUJ has long had a good relationship with the university.
The aim of the prizes is to encourage students to write inquiring, incisive journalism, and to promote the NUJ as a protector of journalistic standards and working conditions.
Congratulating each of the students on the quality of their work, Paul Breeden, encouraged them to keep learning as they take up careers in the trade.
Daniel Calver won the online prize for his website backingbritish.com, a boldly-designed celebration of innovative British businesses ranging from ethical furniture makers to artists, performers and retailers.
Charlotte Harman took the award for print with articles including an interview on censorship with celebrated filmmaker Ken Loach and an indignant riposte to the bungled attempt to deport a Bristol asylum seeker.
Laura-Kate Howells received a special award for her story Work Sexperience on the lack of help for impoverished students drawn in to the sex trade. It was singled out by Branch Exec members as an important and original work.
Five 3rd year students were nominated for the prizes by NUJ members who lecture on the UWE journalism course, and the winners were chosen in conjunction with Bristol NUJ’s executive. Branch member and senior lecturer Mike Jempson, who also hosted a party for the nominees, said: “What is important is that we build into the student experience an appreciation of what the NUJ stands for and how it can help them to develop high standards and a sense of solidarity. I am sure UWE is delighted about the partnership the prizes represent.”
One response to “Bristol students win first NUJ prizes”
Congratulations with the prizes.
It is a great idea with these prizes since it encourage the winners to create more succes and it encourage other students to do as well as the winners.