News Academy, News UK’s flagship programme to inspire the next generation of journalists, is giving nine bright, young students from across the country the chance to cut their teeth at Edinburgh Festival Fringe writing reviews for The Times and The Sunday Times.

The Edinburgh Festival Fringe, which runs from 7-31 August, is the largest arts festival in the world, showcasing the leading starts of entertainment in Scotland every summer.

This all-expenses paid opportunity will give the hand-picked team of students, aged between 18 and 24, the chance to scour the festival - from underground theatre performances through to big-name comedy shows - to bring readers the latest reviews, stories and insider tips from the Fringe.

The students will see their work published in The Times and Sunday Times, the official media partners of the festival. And with a focus on creating innovative digital content, expect to see the students live streaming audiences reactions to shows, making a splash online in The Times' daily Curtain Up festival e-newsletter and more.

Shingi Mararike, a participating student from the University of Warwick, said:

This opportunity will help me learn what it takes to report on huge cultural events, invaluable experience I can use in my future career. I am looking forward to the creativity, the passion and the performances of the Fringe.

Duncan White, Director of the News Academy said:

Writing for The Times and The Sunday Times is an honour for any young journalist - but to combine this with the magic of the Fringe Festival - the mecca of comedy and artistic performance - is an experience they will never forget. I'm delighted the News Academy can support emerging talent in this way, a tangible investment in the future of our industry.  

Sign up to the Curtain Up newsletter here. More information on News Academy here.