Leah Detheridge from Bartholomew School who won two awards, said: “The award ceremony was amazing. I have really enjoyed this whole process and was excited to be a winner.
“This experience has helped me to discover my strengths as a journalist and non-fiction writer and develop my skills in the industry.”
Amelie Myhill from Colchester Sixth Form, added: “Having the opportunity to attend the 2025 Young Reporters awards was such a proud moment for me, to be recognised alongside such talented people and a real reminder that young voices do have a place in the big league of journalism.”
The ceremony took place in Roehampton University’s theatre and staff from the university were on hand to help run the ceremony and supplied much needed cold drinks to combat the intense heat of the day. They were a key part in supporting the event and helped to make the afternoon a success.
Julie Powell from the university, said: “The Awards Ceremony at the Sir David Bell Building highlighted the diverse skills, experiences, and attributes of the talented young reporters representing schools across the UK.“
Thirty-two winners were recognised across six categories, with one student from each year group earning the title of Top Reporter for 2025.
Kathryn Tuck the year 12/13 winner from Townley Grammar has done the scheme four times in total. She reflected by saying: “It’s been amazing to participate in the Young Reporter scheme for the past few years, and I’m definitely going to miss it.
“It’s made such a difference to my writing and also to my confidence; finding a quote for each article means going out of my comfort zone to talk to people about their experiences, and I feel it has given me a much greater appreciation of the work that goes into organising so many of the events I’ve been lucky enough to attend.”
After the event, guests had the chance to explore the university’s beautiful lakes and expansive grounds in the heart of London.
Milo Wilkinson, from St Edmund Arrowsmith Catholic High School, made the eight hour round trip to attend the ceremony. He said: “I was very proud to be one of the few Northern schools to have made it to the winners’ presentation and I found the whole occasion very enjoyable. It was great to see the people I had worked with on the university day and keep in touch with them.”
This year marked only the second time the scheme included a TikTok category. One standout entry followed a day in the life of a young reporter, giving viewers a fast-paced, behind-the-scenes look at the hustle, the deadlines, and the reality of doing the scheme.
Lottie Salim White, the winner of this award, said: “I wanted to create a video that gave an accurate depiction of one of my days as a young reporter.
“I tried to make it engaging and give information about the press night for the River of Light event I attended, but without it being too long that people would grow bored.
“I found the video a new and exciting way to present my experience.”
Whether through powerful written pieces or eye-catching TikToks, this year’s competition proved that young people have stories worth telling and the talent to tell them well.
As the scheme continues to grow, it’s clear that it’s not just about winning, it’s about giving students a platform to be heard, be bold, and be themselves.
Don’t miss the chance to get involved in this inspiring opportunity. For more information, visit youngreporter.co.uk
