Sky News political editor grilled by Northumbria journalists

Adam Boulton, who presents the channel’s Sunday Live show, took part in a question and answer session with 40 second and third-year BA (Hons) Journalism students when he visited the School of Arts and Social Sciences.

The Sky News veteran has interviewed every British Prime Minister from Sir Alec Douglas-Home to Gordon Brown, and international stars ranging from Jane Fonda and Jordan to George W Bush and Barack Obama. During the 2010 General Election campaign Adam will moderate the first ever Sky News leaders’ debate between Gordon Brown, David Cameron and Nick Clegg.

Journalism student Charlotte Howdon said: “Politics is such a specific industry and it has always intimidated me a little but having the opportunity to hear Adam and ask him questions broke those barriers a little. He was very detailed in his answers and it was especially interesting to hear firsthand about the forthcoming General Elections.

“Adam has had access to so many people within the world of politics such as Gordon Brown and Barrack Obama that it was fascinating to listen to him.”

Fellow student, Michael Lightfoot added: “I thought Adam’s insight into the world of politics was a real eye-opener. His love for the job is insatiable and just five minutes with him would help any keen journalist understand what is needed to succeed.”

The BA (Hons) Journalism degree combines theoretical, historical, and practice-based elements of study to develop a comprehensive understanding of journalism. The three-year programme produces graduates who are literate, critical and creative practitioners, well-qualified to move into the world of professional journalism. Throughout the course students build up a portfolio of professional published work for presentation to potential employers and also have the opportunity to undertake an eight-week placement in a professional media setting in their final year.

Programme Leader Lisa Hardisty said that Adam’s visit to Northumbria was an honour for the students, “Adam Boulton is an impressive man and his visit was an invaluable opportunity for our Journalism students to gain an insight into his role at Sky News.  His pedigree in terms of the field of political journalism is outstanding.”