Wanting to pursue a career in journalism and media but don't know where to start? Below you will find links to several organisations that offer work experience, training schemes, grants, courses and general advice for starting a media career.

The Guardian runs two work-experience schemes both offering two week placements each summer: one for people from BAME backgrounds; and one for people with disabilities. Successful applicants will learn about the profession and will be assigned a Guardian journalist as a mentor. Applications for this programme are currently closed. Please check back for updates.

The Guardian Foundation funds three bursaries to help aspiring journalists break into the media through studying for a postgraduate qualification in web, newspaper or broadcast journalism. The bursary pays for tuition fees and provides a subsistence allowance. Training will include several weeks’ work experience within Guardian Media Group.

The Guardian runs a 12 month training scheme for aspiring developers to join the product and engineering departments. To apply, you will need experience of programming, but do not need any specific qualifications. Trainees will develop, manage and maintain live applications along with the rest of the development team.

If you have a great idea for a piece of opinion writing, you can pitch to Comment is free. They are especially interested if you have particular expertise or experience in the relevant areas.

All opportunities to work for the Guardian and The Guardian Foundation in any department, including the above schemes, are advertised on the Work for us page.