A group of aspiring student journalists from the University of Brighton’s BA and MA Journalism programmes recently had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of politics and international news reporting during an educational field trip to London. The experience provided students with a rare and valuable behind-the-scenes look at the UK Parliament and CNN International’s London bureau.
The day began with a guided tour of the House of Commons and the House of Lords, allowing students to gain a deeper understanding of the UK’s legislative process and political history. Walking through the historic chambers where key national decisions are debated and enacted, students were able to appreciate the significance of the political process up close.
After their parliamentary visit, the students turned their attention to international news media, with an exclusive visit to CNN International’s state-of-the-art London bureau. Here, they stepped into the fast-paced world of global news broadcasting, where they witnessed first-hand how breaking news is reported and broadcast to audiences around the world. One of the key highlights of the visit was observing the production of the 4pm breaking news bulletin, where students saw journalists, producers, and technical teams working together under intense time pressures.
In addition to the behind-the-scenes newsroom experience, students also had the rare opportunity of speaking with leading CNN journalists, gaining valuable career insights and professional advice. Among the notable figures they met was Emmy Award-winning correspondent Isobel Yeung, known for her in-depth reporting on international affairs and conflict zones. Isobel shared her experiences covering some of the most pressing global issues, offering students a unique perspective on the challenges and responsibilities of reporting from the front lines.
The field trip was an inspiring and eye-opening experience, providing students with invaluable exposure to the worlds of politics and journalism. By witnessing both the inner workings of government and the fast-paced nature of international news, the visit underscored the critical role journalists play in informing the public and holding power to account.
For the students, the trip served as a powerful reminder of the impact their future careers could have. With new insights and experiences gained, they returned to their studies with fresh enthusiasm and a greater appreciation for the industries they aspire to join.
Find out more about studying Journalism at Brighton.
