Rosie, 12, Crowned Jill Dando News Reporter of the Year
By Schools Correspondent
A 12-year-old student has been crowned Jill Dando Reporter of the Year after three outstanding years in a real-life working newsroom inspired by the culture of Jill Dando herself — kind, humble and brilliant.
Rosie, now at Priory Community School Academy, Somerset began her reporting journey at Castle Batch School aged just 10.
She instantly stood out.
She showed sharp instincts, strong storytelling skills and an enthusiastic attitude to interviews — qualities that defined Jill Dando’s own journalism from the age of 13 at nearby Worle Community School Academy.
Since then, Rosie has achieved what many adults never do. She has appeared on TV news. She has interviewed Mr Speaker inside Parliament — twice. She has quizzed international rugby stars in her spare time. All before turning 13.
Jill Dando News newsrooms with stories posted on its newspaper Good News Post www.goodnewspost.co.uk and wider Media is now being rolled out to schools across the UK.
It’s ethos and culture is for student reporters aged 5 to 21 to write stories on inspirational people, the amazing work of charities and other good causes in their communities.
“I am thrilled to win this award,” Rosie said. “I’ve loved every minute of Jill Dando News. It has given me confidence and experience interviewing people from all walks of life, including those in Parliament and international rugby players.
“We particularly love each year reporting on the local care homes and their Christmas events and other celebrations.”
One of her standout early stories was a report on Weston-super-Mare rugby players breaking into the top British leagues.
She researched it, sourced it and delivered it herself at just 10.
She tracked down and interviewed Premiership players Curtis Langdon and Josh Caulfield, both former Priory students and Hornets Rugby Club products.
Curtis, now an England international, spoke openly to Rosie about match-day nerves, his love of “egg bagels” before games, and the pride of making his England debut.
Josh called playing in the Premiership “a true privilege” and praised local schools and clubs for shaping his career. He even surprised Rosie with pitch-side Bristol Bears tickets.
Both players praised Rosie’s professionalism and impressive preparation.
Rosie works inside a full, real-life school newsroom — the heart of the Jill Dando News project.
The seeds of the project was first launched in 2011 and now since starting in Worle Community School Academy it boosts literacy and confidence for young people aged 5 to 21.
The newsroom gives children rare access to real journalism: interviews with leaders, sports stars, business figures and people from everyday life. It also teaches digital skills and real working-world experience boosting confidence and communication and to prepare young people for the world of work.
