Competitive process

Holly Taylor and Alix Pickles will both graduate this month from the MA Multimedia Journalism course. They will take up their new roles in 2016, following a very competitive process.

Before going to the Breakfast team, Alix will spend three months working on the regional news programme North West Tonight. Alix, who also studied BA History and Politics at Newcastle University said: “The interview process was nerve racking but also a lot of fun to go down and see MediaCity and meet some BBC staff who are working in broadcast journalism.

Holly, who is from Newcastle originally, added: “When I found out I was one of only two from the entire MA course being put forward for the BBC roles, I was thrilled but I knew how hard the competition would be. Although the interview was the most challenging thing I’ve probably ever had to do, I know I have the University to thank for my success.

“After graduating from York last year with an English Language and Linguistics degree I decided to move back home to Newcastle and apply for the September International Multimedia Journalism MA course at the University. I can honestly say it has been the most rewarding year to date and I’ve loved every second. “

Six million viewers

The roles were offered through the Alison Ford internships scheme. The scheme is run by the BBC in memory of Alison Ford, the editor of BBC Breakfast, who died in 2013. She led the programme through the most successful period in its history, and now Breakfast is watched by more than six million people a day.

Alison started her career as a trainee reporter with the BBC, and because she was from the North East originally, the scheme is only open to students from Newcastle, Northumbria, Sunderland and Teesside universities.

David Baines, Senior Lecturer in Journalism, said: “I was really pleased that both our candidates were successful. They were both excellent students and I am sure they have exciting careers in journalism ahead of them. The last time these internships were offered, another of our graduates, Josh Kelly, was one of those chosen and he is now working for the BBC in Media City.

“These are fantastic opportunities for Alix and Holly and I wish them both well as they start their new careers.”