Laughter, applause and energetic body language came to the fore as children from disadvantaged schools entered a four-day media camp on 2 April.

The 36 learners from Sinethemba, Zisukhanyo and Intsebenziswano High Schools in Philippi were part of the Media School's community outreach programme, Varsity newspaper's project to teach township pupils journalism and life skills.

Director of the Media School, Jess Auerbach, said the camp in the Zeekoevlei Environmental Centre in Grassy Park would be used to arm learners with information about the role of the reporter, ethics, career development and skills consolidation.

The Media School's outreach programme has three curricula: beginners, advanced and mentorship, with the camp as part of the mentorship component. Twenty UCT students are helping the 140 Grade 9 to Grade 12 learners on the programme to access the tertiary and media sectors, with five on internships at Bush Radio.