NTU MA Journalism graduate lands royal reporting role with Press Association
MA Journalism graduate Sophie Robinson achieves major career milestone after securing her first journalism role at Press Association (PA) before finishing her degree at Nottingham Trent University (NTU).
Published on 29 January 2026
From NTU to the heart of UK news
While still completing her studies at NTU, Sophie successfully secured a highly competitive reporting role at PA Media, the UK’s national news agency that supplies stories to newsrooms across the country, including broadcasters, national newspapers and digital publishers - marking an impressive start to her journalism career. For many journalists, it provides a strong foundation for a career in fast-paced news reporting.
Covering the Royal Family on the global stage
One of Sophie’s recent highlights has been representing PA as part of the Royal reporting pool - a system designed to ensure efficient, high-quality coverage of royal engagements. Rather than multiple news organisations sending large numbers of journalists abroad, a single reporter from the pool travels to cover the visit on behalf of the entire UK media. The stories, images and updates are then shared nationally.
Reporting from Singapore with Princess Anne
In late 2025, Sophie was selected to travel to Singapore to cover an official overseas visit by Princess Anne, The Princess Royal. During the visit, Princess Anne attended a number of high-profile engagements, including laying a wreath at a memorial service in honour of Queen Elizabeth II. Sophie’s reporting contributed to national coverage carried by major UK outlets, with stories appearing across platforms including Sky News, The Independent and the Evening Standard.
Reflecting on the experience, Sophie said:
“I was thrilled to be offered the chance to work in Singapore as part of my job with PA. The opportunity to travel to another country to cover a royal tour, while working around the challenges of the different time zones and unpredictable weather, was absolutely fantastic. The trip involved reporting on significant moments during the Princess Royal’s visit to the country, including when she tested out a flight simulator and celebrated King Charles’s birthday at a party.”
The assignment required fast, accurate reporting under international pressure - from coordinating across time zones to delivering copy used by news organisations across the UK.
A strong start to a journalism career
Sophie’s experience highlights both her own determination and the practical, industry-focused nature of NTU’s MA Journalism course. Her journey from NTU student to international royal reporting assignment within a year of graduating demonstrates what is possible with commitment, resilience and high-quality training.
Sophie added:
"The skills I learned while studying at NTU have helped me to have incredible opportunities like this."
From everyone in the School of Social Sciences and at Nottingham Trent University, we couldn’t be prouder of Sophie’s achievements. Her success is a testament to the hard work, talent and determination shown by our Journalism students.