Journalism student Jack in the running for major industry accolade

University of Gloucestershire student Jack Shute has been shortlisted for an annual industry award by the National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ).

Jack, who is studying for a BA (Hons) Journalism degree in the University’s School of Creative Industries, is among three finalists in the NCTJ Awards for Excellence’s Student Journalism Podcast category.

The awards recognise and reward the best journalism students, apprentices and trainees, highlighting the achievements of individuals with promising careers ahead of them.

Jack, who interviews celebrities and people of interest on his ‘Pop Cult Digest podcast, said: “I found out about my nomination on Twitter and I screamed a little when I saw it – I was so surprised.

“I’m still feeling overwhelmed but, all in all, I just feel so lucky and supported. It’s an amazing feeling to be recognised and appreciated by people I look up to and respect in my industry, but most importantly, it’s solid proof that hard work really does pay off sometimes.”

Jack added: “I’m very proud to represent University of Gloucestershire and my journalism course at the NCTJ Awards.  I chose the journalism course for a reason and it was because I knew it would get me to the places I’ve always wanted to go. Now fingers crossed and let’s hope I can bring this award back home.”

The creative talent of university students like Jack is being showcased by the MadeAtUni: Creative Sparks campaign launched today by Universities UK that aims to encourage the Government to promote and support the importance of creativity and creative courses.

It followed a study, conducted by Savanta ComRes for Universities UK, that revealed that 65 per cent of parents agree that creative courses at university benefit the UK economy, while 69 per cent say that students gain vital creative skills at university which are essential to powering the UK’s creative industries.

Jack launched his celebrity and entertainment podcast last year after the Government imposed lockdown restrictions during the Covid-19 pandemic.

He has his own regular slot on BBC Radio Gloucestershire’s Saturday Brunch Show, as well as presenting his own monthly Showbiz show where he discusses exciting events happening in Gloucestershire and the UK.

“I’ve always been called a chatterbox so podcasting seems like the perfect fit for me,” he said. “I wanted to be able to independently create something of my very own that I could be proud of, but also have fun with.

“My lecturer, Anna Pointer, helped me realise my passion for celebrity and entertainment journalism and that’s when I realised I could make my own podcast.

“The whole idea is for my guests to be able to tell stories, via Zoom, they’ve never told before. As they’re sat at home, they already feel comfortable and safe which helps them to open up to me.

“I’ve been working closely with BBC Radio Gloucestershire since I was 18. It all started when I was competing in a local drag competition and Faye Hatcher interviewed me for her show.

“Jon Smith also invited me to host my own residency show when I was 18, where I got to represent the local LGBTQ+ and drag community.”

The winners of the NCTJ Awards for Excellence will be announced in the Spring.