Press Association Academy students win at National Apprenticeship Awards regional finals

Press Association Academy's Level 5 Journalist apprentices achieved notable recognition at the National Apprenticeship and Skills Awards regional finals in October.

Amrit Singh Mann from Sky News won London's 'Higher Apprentice of the Year' award, while Nayana Mena from the BBC received high commendation in the same category for the South East region.

Both apprentices began their programs at Press Association Academy in September 2022.

Amrit Singh Mann, Sky News

Amrit earned a Distinction grade and was named the NCTJ Apprentice of the Year. He also received recognition at the British Sikh Awards.

Currently working as a producer for Sky News crime reporter Martin Brunt, Amrit stated: "Without a doubt my off-the-job training at Press Association Academy was one of the highlights of my apprenticeship."

He rotated through multiple Sky News departments including newsgathering, planning, output, podcast, radio, mobile and social media. His produced stories have been shortlisted for the Asian Media Awards, including pieces on a murdered hip-hop star's father and a Sikh activist on an Indian hit list.

Nayana Mena, BBC Tunbridge Wells

Nayana began her apprenticeship in the London newsroom across radio, TV and online platforms. She was selected to present the BBC's apprentice induction event broadcast live across the UK.

Following apprenticeship completion, Nayana secured a role as a Journalist at BBC Radio Kent. Kathryn Park, Early Careers Scheme Manager (Journalism), noted that "Nayana's evangelical zeal for journalism...is infectious."

The National Apprenticeship Awards finals will be hosted at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London on Wednesday, 27 November.