Junior journalist opportunities
Explore the press opportunities for children and young people in the UK. From press events and festivals to book reviews and competitions, First News helps aspiring reporters gain real journalism experience.
If you are interested in any of the current opportunities below, please email [email protected]. For junior journalist reports, we require 150-200 words and a few hi-res photos of your experience. We welcome reports from everyone, regardless of ability!
We update this page regularly with new opportunities. Last updated: 09/06/26.
Invite to the press performance of Arthur
What? One junior journalist and a grown-up is invited to the press performance of Arthur, a new play with original songs based on the Arthurian legend and the quest for a better world. This magical adventure is recommended for children ages 6-12, and your report from the day will be featured in First News!
When? Saturday 27 June at 2.30pm
Where? Polka Theatre, 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon
Find out more about the show at polkatheatre.com/event/arthur.
Visit to the Gunpowder Mills in Lee Valley
What? Would you like to visit a place with 300 years of curious history and forgotten nature? The Gunpowder Mills in Lee Valley, just outside London, are ready to welcome you for a family day out. You’ll be able to learn about gunpowder production and secret rocket research, and your report from the day will be featured in First News!
When? From 11.30am on Saturday 13 June
Where? The Gunpowder Mills, Beaulieu Drive, Waltham Abbey, Essex, EN9 1JY
Find out more about the events at the Gunpowder Mills at www.gunpowdermills.com/whats-on-events.
Visit the Brunel Museum in London
What? The Brunel Museum has extended its display and events season related to the French Revolution!
It will host a season of activity relating to the Brunel family’s connection to the French Revolution. A brand-new display will bring together the oldest objects in the Museum’s collection – some on display for the first time.
When? Any day
Where? The Brunel Museum, Railway Ave, London SE16 4LF
Find out more at thebrunelmuseum.com.
Feature in Your News!
If you want to be a junior journalist for First News and go to cool press events or write about something that you’re passionate about, get in touch by asking a trusted adult to email us at [email protected].
Write a book review and have it featured in First News!
Do you have thoughts on a book you have read recently that you want to share with others? Why not write a book review for us? Here’s what you’ll need to do:
- Write 100-120 words on any type of book – chapter books, graphic novels, fiction, non-fiction… even audiobooks are all welcome! No person, reader type, format or genre is excluded
- Tell us what the book is about, what you most enjoyed about it, how the book made you feel and if you had any favourite parts
- Suggest which type of reader would enjoy it
- A picture of the reader holding the book is welcome, too, but not essential
- You could even submit a review as a whole class
Send all book reviews in to [email protected] or by clicking the button below.