Young Reporters scoop valuable prizes

Two Putney students have been recognised for their achievements in Newsquest's Young Reporters 2026 competition, winning places at a journalism workshop which took place at Roehampton University on 6th June, followed by an awards ceremony three weeks later.

Year 10 student Georgia B, pictured above, was a proud finalist in the Year 10 and 11 category, and Alessia K in Year 12, pictured below, won a commendation in the Post-16 category.

Reflecting on the workshop, Alessia said, "I gained experience and understanding of what it is like to be a real reporter." She explained that participants worked collaboratively in small groups, focusing on different topics such as news, sport and events. "Together we chose articles written by fellow young reporters and learned about the online software needed to put together an organised and aesthetically pleasing newspaper of our own."

Georgia spoke with equal enthusiasm about the workshop. "It was a new opportunity to experience the work that goes into producing a magazine and to develop my journalism skills," she said.

During the day, Georgia and her peers refined articles for publication, carefully considering design and presentation. "We worked together to edit and upload the winning articles, discussing how different design choices, layouts and imaging could improve the final result." Georgia particularly enjoyed the teamwork atmosphere, adding, "One of the most enjoyable aspects of the day was collaborating with other young journalists who share a passion for writing and reporting."

Alessia's 2026 Newsquest portfolio showcases a varied range of journalism, including pieces on the Japanese Grand Prix and the enchanting cherry blossoms of Kanazawa. From Lucca in Italy she wrote a piece on Europe's largest comic festival, complete with an interview with the event's audiovisual designer. Closer to home, she covered the proposed changes to the 424 bus route from Putney Heath.

Georgia's Newsquest journalism is likewise wide-ranging. Highlights in Georgia's portfolio include her interview with the Head Coach at Wimbledon's Westside Tennis Club, emphasising the club's community-centred ethos; a review of Kip Williams' production of Dracula at the Noël Coward Theatre, starring Cynthia Erivo as the eponymous Count, and, in Putney, local excitement about the recent opening of an M&S Food Hall in the High Street.

Well done to Alessia and Georgia and, indeed, to all the PHS students who enrolled as Young Reporters this year and submitted articles for Newsquest.