THE Irish News Young News Readers media project struck gold by securing the best publication accolae at the Northern Ireland CIPR (Chartered Institute of Public Relations) PRide Awards.
As the only education initiative of its kind in Ireland, the Young News Readers literary project is created in partnership with teachers.
It is aimed at 8-14-year-olds (Key Stage 2 and 3) and provides teachers with eight weeks of ready-to-go literacy content and a weekly school edition newspaper.
With more than 6,000 pupils taking part from 130 schools across Ireland, and internationally, including England, Spain and Dubai in 2023, the goal of the project is to empower pupils to access, understand, analyse and participate in the news.
Judges commented that the project was: “A highly innovative campaign to connect with the next generation of readers by encouraging participation and actively engaging them in the publication. Clear objectives and measurement created a well-rounded campaign.”
In 2023, Young News Readers was sponsored by EY, Fujitsu, Exploris NI and St. Mary’s University College Belfast.
IntoMedia chief marketing officer Annette McManus said: “We're delighted the Young News Readers project has scooped the gold award for best publication and is recognised among some of the best marketing campaigns across Northern Ireland.
“As the highest accolade in the communications industry, this achievement will only strengthen the integrity of this literacy project further.”
She added: “I'm hugely grateful for the support of the schools, teachers and pupils who participate in the project, and our sponsors who support the campaign each year.”
For more information and to register interest for 2024, visit irishnews.com/ynr
