Parmiter School student wins Young Reporter Award, records for Open University
Arran Sihota secured a professional studio session after winning the Sports category at the 2026 awards
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From the archive. This story was written up on 30 July 2026 from reporting first published on 20 July 2026, which is the date shown above. We took up the back catalogue of the local titles we read when this site launched, so the events are older than the page.
A Parmiter School student has recorded Instagram reels for the Open University after winning a national journalism award. Arran Sihota, 17, from Harrow, won the Sports category at the 2026 Young Reporter Awards.
The Open University invited him to a professional sound studio in June. There, he provided voiceovers for a series of videos and worked alongside content producers. The session was arranged by Emma Burch of Artful Being.
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Sihota said the experience gave him a "real gauge for how this part of the industry works internally". He added that it was an "amazing experience" and helped him gain valuable media skills.
Awards ceremony at Roehampton University
The Young Reporter Awards ceremony took place at Roehampton University in June. Thirty-three students were recognised across various categories. Arwa Kinana from Croydon High School and Neve Ess from Franklin Sixth Form were named overall winners for 2026.
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Winners also took part in a university newsroom day. They produced an online newspaper and worked to tight deadlines. The Young Reporter Scheme, running for 18 years, helps students develop journalism and communication skills.
It was a lot to get through and I've seen seasoned pros struggle more than he did.
Emma Burch, Artful Being
Burch praised Sihota’s professionalism during the recording session. She said he handled the workload better than some experienced professionals. The opportunity highlighted the benefits of the Young Reporter Scheme, she added.
What happens next
The Young Reporter Scheme is open for new participants in September. Students interested in joining can visit the scheme’s website for more information. No further details about Sihota’s future projects have been announced.
Questions this report answers
+What did the student win an award for?
Arran Sihota won the Sports category at the 2026 Young Reporter Awards. This recognition led to a professional studio session where he recorded Instagram reels for the Open University.
+Who organised the recording session for the student?
Emma Burch of Artful Being organised the professional studio session for Arran Sihota. She praised his performance, calling it brilliant and highlighting his professionalism during the recording.
+What happens next for the Young Reporter Scheme?
The Young Reporter Scheme will open for new participants in September. Students interested can visit the scheme’s website for more information and to sign up.
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