Trainee Journalist

Clear Sky Publishing is one of the fastest-growing independent media companies in the South West. Our portfolio includes the North Devon Gazette, Torbay Weekly, The Moorlander, and Exeter Today, alongside our premier lifestyle titles such as Exeter Living and Dartmoor Magazine.

This is a fast-paced, digital-first role for a journalist who lives for the "break." You will be responsible for providing a constant stream of local news for our daily sites. While you are based on your patch and work remotely, you are a vital link in our digital newsroom team. You will be in constant communication with your Editor, filing multiple stories a day to ensure our readers are always up to date.

Responsibilities Source and produce daily news content: Identify, research, and write multiple news stories per day to ensure our digital platforms provide real-time, high-frequency updates for our readers. Secure exclusive local stories: Proactively build a network of community contacts and "boots on the ground" sources to uncover original news that hasn't been reported by competitors. Collaborate with the editorial team: Maintain constant communication with the News Editor and fellow journalists via digital newsroom channels to pitch ideas, refine story angles, and coordinate coverage. Uphold rigorous legal and ethical standards: Ensure every story is written in strict accordance with UK Media Law (including Defamation and Contempt) and the IPSO Editors’ Code of Practice. Manage field-based reporting: Independently organise a daily schedule to cover events and conduct interviews across the designated Devon patch, ensuring a visible presence in the community. Optimise content for digital audiences: Write engaging headlines and utilise basic digital tools to ensure news stories are accessible and reach the widest possible audience online. Monitor local developments: Stay alert to breaking news, local council activities, and emergency services updates within the region to provide immediate and accurate reporting.

Qualifications Educational Background: A degree in Journalism is essential. Legal & Ethical Literacy: A comprehensive and up-to-date understanding of UK Media Law and the IPSO Editors’ Code of Practice is mandatory. News Instinct: A proven ability to "spot a story" and the tenacity to transform a raw lead into a compelling news report. Self-Management: As this is a home and field-based role, you must be a disciplined self-starter capable of managing your own workload and hitting multiple daily deadlines. Digital Competency: Comfortable filing copy quickly within a digital-first news environment. Interpersonal Skills: The ability to communicate confidently with a diverse range of people to secure interviews and information. Full UK Driving License: Access to a vehicle and a valid driving license is essential for covering your territory effectively.