23-year-old Harry McMullen graduated from Leeds Trinity in December 2019 with a Master’s degree in Journalism. He was awarded the NCTJ prize after his video submission exploring his hometown of Bradford, received the highest marks in the country.

Harry’s video reported on the £4million restoration scheme of the Bradford Odeon, outlining what the reopening of the theatre would mean to the city, whilst also exploring themes including racial stereotypes, drug use and poverty.

Harry said: “I must admit it came as a shock to win the award, but I was speechless when I found out. I feel even prouder that my video highlights a positive story about my hometown of Bradford, when so much of the press turn a blind eye to the city. I think it is really refreshing that a huge organisation like the NCTJ is taking an interest in Bradford. I can’t wait to see what the future has in store for me, this award really does mean a lot.”

Jenny Kean, Course Leader for the MA Journalism programme, said: “We couldn’t be prouder of Harry’s achievement. The NCTJ is known for being a really tough standard to meet and that’s what makes it the sought-after standard in the industry. So for Harry to produce the best video work from all his peers across the country is a testament to the skills he has learned on the MA Journalism here at Leeds Trinity.”

Harry was one of 150 students who graduated from Leeds Trinity and is currently freelancing at ITV Yorkshire whilst looking for full-time work. 

Reflecting on his time at the University, Harry said: “Leeds Trinity is a brilliant stepping stone from education to employment, the contacts I gained from my lecturers are priceless. The size of the University is also ideal for the quality of tuition – I attended a large university for my undergraduate degree and I sometimes felt insignificant. At Leeds Trinity, all the staff know your name and you feel like they take a real interest in your studies and try to help you in any way they can.”

As recipient of the Best Videojournalism prize, Harry will be awarded a cheque for £250 at the NCTJ Student Council event today (Friday 31 January), at the Financial Times in London.

The MA Journalism degree at Leeds Trinity University is an intense programme that prepares graduates for the world of journalism and communications, with dual accreditation by the National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ) and the British Journalism Training Council (BJTC).