Aspiring young reporters will be given advice by one of the Isle of Man’s best known journalists at a workshop at the family Library.
Paul Speller will host the Press Gang event, for seven to 11-year-olds, on Saturday, June 22.
It will be a chance for budding journalists to put pen to paper, and learn the rules of reporting, whilst having a go at writing a news article.
They will even have a chance to hear some tales about the funnier side of life in a newsroom from Paul, who has been involved in the media in the island for more than 20 years.
Father of two Paul is a former news editor and acting editor at Isle of Man Newspapers and is now a freelance journalist, working for both local and UK national publications.
He is well known for his hard hitting and humorous columns on everything from politics to family life and, during his career, has put every chief minister on the spot, met soap stars and football legends and interviewed celebrities ranging from Samantha Barks to Doctor Who.
Paul, said: ‘I first knew I wanted to be a journalist when I was seven, so I imagine there are others out there of similar age who might appreciate the chance to learn a bit more about the job.
‘We’ll take a look at the basic writing skills for a reporter – skills that can be used for writing in any form – as well as investigating what makes a good story and we’ll have a go at making our own headlines.
‘It will be informal and fun – and the skills we learn will be just as handy for writing homework as working on a newspaper.’
The aspiring reporters will also be able to turn the tables on Paul and get him to answer their questions, instead of Paul being the one doing the asking, as he is used to!
Librarian in charge at the Family Library, Mary Cousins, said: ‘We are delighted to have secured Paul’s expertise for this workshop, which is one of many events we have lined up for a packed summer of activities, including our summer reading scheme – details of which will be revealed soon.’
Paul, who used to be an assistant youth worker with the Department of Education and Children’s youth service in his spare time, added: ‘I’ve always been a great fan of the Family Library, which I think is a fantastic facility, so I’m delighted that I have been given this opportunity to stage the workshop there.
‘Over the years, I’ve spoken to many school groups about journalism and have found that some of the most pertinent questions have come from the children in the years three-six age group, so I’m looking forward to being put on the spot.
‘Hopefully, the workshop could help put one or two on the right path to a career as a journalist - which is a fantastic job - or at least give them a better idea of what’s involved, while also helping a little with their writing skills.’
The workshop takes place in the Family Library, Westmoreland Road, Douglas, from 1.30pm to 3pm on Saturday, June 22. Tickets are £5. To book a place, contact the Family Library on 640650.
