Over 90 budding young journalists from schools and colleges across the North of England joined leading newsmakers for a conference to mark the launch of the News Academy – the biggest investment made in the future of journalism for a generation.

News UK, publisher of The Sun, The Times and The Sunday Times established the News Academy to help 16-18 year olds discover more about working in the media and forging a career in journalism.

Today’s conference, held at The Manchester Museum of Science & Industry, was attended by students from seven schools in the north of England: Manchester Academy, Trafford College, Whalley Range High School, Salford College, Manchester Grammar School, Winstanley College and Harrytown Catholic High School.

The conference was opened by Phil Townsend, Head of Communications at Manchester United.

Students participated in three lively panel discussions and Q&A sessions with experienced journalists. For the first debate, ‘What are the costs of free journalism’, Nick Petrie, Deputy Head of News Development at The Times & Sunday Times, Guy Patrick, Northern News Editor at The Sun and Sarah Mason, Assistant Editor of Fabulous Magazine had a lively discussion about the effects of the digital age on journalism and how to pay for it.

The other sessions looked at topical issues including the responsibilities of a free press and the crucial role of professional journalism in today’s society.

Students also attended workshops covering the roles of an editor, sports writer and political correspondent. Plus there was plenty of networking and informal discussions between students and the leading journalists.

The Sun’s Northern News Editor, Guy Patrick, said: "At a time when other national newspapers have reduced their staffing levels in Manchester, The Sun has steadily increased its presence in the city and now has more reporters than any of its competitors.

"Our commitment to the North West region has never been greater - and News Academy can help us to provide Sun journalists of the future. It's a fantastic career and whether you're interested in news, sport, showbiz or politics, the possibilities are endless.

"I've already met several News Academy ambassadors and I was hugely impressed by their enthusiasm and determination to make this project work. My team and I are proud to be involved with this initiative."

Phil Townsend, Manchester United Communications Director, said: "It's fantastic. News UK is working with the Young Journalists' Academy to build something that invests in the future of journalism. It's great to be putting something back."

The News Academy aims to engage students in at least 350 schools across the UK and attract them to become the world-class journalists of tomorrow. Following on from a conference in Glasgow earlier this month, three more conferences will be held throughout 2014 in London, Cardiff and Dublin.

In addition to the major programme of conferences, workshops and masterclasses there will be an annual summer school run by journalists from all of News UK's titles who will impart their unique skills, knowledge and experience.