A platform where students and independent writers publish, get guidance, and build credible portfolios - preparing tomorrow’s journalists today.
Sources: National Literacy Trust (2020), Ofcom (2024), Community Life Survey (2023/24)
The Draftroom Ltd seeks to change this by providing a platform where young people can actively engage with the issues that matter to them - the Contributors.
The Draftroom Ltd is a youth-led media organisation helping the next generation of journalists publish their work, gain editorial guidance, and build portfolios that showcase skills to universities, employers, and collaborators.
We take a comprehensive approach to Contributor development (our platform users) by not only providing the necessary space to publish but also offering access to guidance and community support. This enables Contributors to build on skills taught in Secondary and Sixth Form education and apply them in a real-world, industry-relevant setting.
To prepare young creators for future life and the media industry by helping them establish professional credibility, develop independent and collaborative projects with others, and take the first steps in their careers with confidence. We provide a relevant community and unbiased publishing platform where Contributors can freely express their perspectives.
Build a portfolio that showcases real skills to universities and employers.
Connect with peers, mentors, and industry professionals in our collaborative environment.
Apply classroom knowledge in industry-relevant settings with professional guidance.
Journalism builds literacy, critical thinking, communication, and civic engagement - skills that shape confident, employable young adults.
Publishing for real audiences makes writing relevant and rewarding - building capability and confidence beyond classroom assignments.
National Literacy Trust data shows writing enjoyment among 14–18s fell from 31.3% (2015) to 23.55% (2020) - a near 25% reduction. The Draftroom provides a real platform for purposeful writing, producing evidence of capability while building literacy and motivation.
In a world of misinformation, we guide Contributors to question sources, back up claims, and publish credible, evidenced work.
Ofcom (2024) found only 69% of children feel confident judging whether content is real or fake - down from 82% in 2022. Through research and editorial support, Contributors learn to distinguish misinformation and present well‑supported arguments.
A safe, professional space to publish, get feedback, and engage in constructive dialogue - elevating confidence and voice.
Education Endowment Foundation research links low confidence in speaking and writing with falling behind across subjects. Draftroom participation strengthens core communication and socio‑emotional skills.
Contributors explore local to global issues, collaborate with peers and editors, and learn their voice can drive tangible change.
Community Life Survey (2023/24) reports only 28% of 16–24 year‑olds participated in civic life in the past year. Publishing to a wider audience helps young people see how informed voices shape communities.
Real‑world projects, deadlines, and collaboration build a credible body of work - opening doors to higher education and employers.
Many young people enter work lacking communication, teamwork, resilience, and problem‑solving. The Draftroom connects education to industry through guided publishing, mentorship, and community.
By 2028, we will be operating three interconnected services under the Draftroom brand - each reinforcing our mission to build a modern, inclusive media ecosystem.
A digital newsroom for 14–25s to publish original work, receive editorial guidance, network with Contributors, and build accessible, credible portfolios.
An engaging podcast series exploring stories behind published work - giving Contributors hands‑on experience in podcast production and audio journalism.
A dedicated platform for theory‑based, long‑form and speculative journalism exploring the unknown, the “what if”, and the deeper forces shaping our world. Serving more mature audiences looking for in-depth analysis.
The Draftroom Ltd is governed by six directors, with each director responsible for a specific business area.
Overall leadership, strategy, and governance.
Financial management, revenue tracking and budgeting.
Legal oversight, safeguarding policies, and regulatory compliance.
Editorial standards, contributor training, and professional development.
Digital platforms, data security, and technology development.
Business partnerships, growth initiatives, and long-term sustainability.
Our Board of Directors is made up of young professionals who bring both specialist expertise and a firsthand understanding of the audiences we serve. Every decision is informed by real insight into the perspectives, challenges, and ambitions of the next generation.
At The Draftroom Ltd, our youth is not a limitation, it's a competitive advantage, allowing us to stay ahead of emerging trends and have a better insight into our Contributors.
Empowering young voices while building the UK's most influential youth-led media organisation.
The Draftroom exists to empower young people to develop essential soft skills by engaging with journalism and creative media. We provide a unbiased publishing platform (including written articles, podcasts, and other forms of digital content) where Contributors can freely express their perspectives within the boundaries of the law.
Alongside publishing, we look to partner with educational institutions and industry organisations to create opportunities that support learning, professional growth, and innovation.
To establish the United Kingdom's most influential youth-led media organisation. Pioneering multimedia storytelling, driving national partnerships and positioning young voices at the heart of the future of journalism.
Preparing the organisation for international expansion and setting the standard for youth media worldwide.
Ready to join our community? Whether you're a student journalist, educator, or organisation looking to collaborate, we'd love to hear from you.
Send us your questions, ideas, or collaboration proposals.
the.draftroomuk@gmail.comFollow our professional journey and connect with our team.
ConnectConnect with fellow Contributors and stay updated on opportunities.
Whether you're a budding journalist ready to publish your first piece, an educator interested in incorporating real-world media experience into your curriculum, or an organisation looking to support youth journalism – we want to hear from you.
Tip: For specific team member inquiries, mention their role in your email subject line for faster response.