​​A postgraduate Journalism student at Leeds Trinity University has been shortlisted for a national BBC journalism award.

George Arkley, 21, has been shortlisted for Student Journalist of the Year at BBC Radio 4’s Today Programme Student Journalism Awards 2019 after impressing industry experts with her selection of witty and entertaining feature articles for The Tab UK, a national student news site. ​

George’s articles for The Tab typically cover dating, sex and relationships, student living and popular culture, as well as more serious subjects such as sexual assault and the environment. She was encouraged to apply for the Student Journalism Awards after impressing editors at The Tab with her story-telling.

As part of her award entry George submitted three pieces of published work, which included: unusual findings in Leeds student accommodation, a sexual assault map of Leeds which she created using police reports, and a feature story on a group of students who were charged £1billion for their household bills by mistake.

Speaking ahead of the awards ceremony, which takes place on Monday (28 October), she said: “It was a massive surprise to be shortlisted! I’m currently a features journalist, so I don’t really write a lot of news stories. The award is for student journalism, which I’ve got lots of experience in – but my degree at Leeds Trinity University is equipping me with the skills to explore other areas of journalism, and for a much wider audience.”

She added: “The MA Journalism course at Leeds Trinity University is amazing, I’ve already learned so much and I’ve only been here a month. The facilities are incredible, and it’s been really fun so far.”

Jenny Kean, Course Leader for the MA Journalism programme, said: “We’re really proud that George has already achieved recognition at a national level. She is already bringing her knowledge and skills to the course here at Leeds Trinity, and being shortlisted in this way is a tribute to what she has achieved as a journalist – it’s fantastic!”.

The Today Programme Student Journalism Awards 2019 take place on Monday 28 October in the BBC's Radio Theatre in London, hosted by BBC journalist Justin Webb. The winner of Student Journalist of the Year will be selected by Sarah Sands, editor of the Today programme; Kamal Ahmed, Editorial Director BBC; Katie Lloyd, Development Director BBC and Daniell Morrisey, Head of Talent BBC.

The winner of the award will receive a place on the highly sought-after BBC Trainee Journalism Scheme, with the runner-up gaining a work experience placement at the BBC.