Media training for moments that matter .

Media First has spent more than 40 years helping spokespeople, leaders and subject matter experts communicate effectively when facing journalists, difficult questions and public scrutiny.

Our training is led by current and former journalists who understand how the media works and the pressures spokespeople face. Participants take part in realistic interviews, receive detailed feedback and learn through practical experience rather than lengthy theory sessions.

Many programmes are delivered using professional filming facilities and dedicated camera technicians, creating realistic interview environments that closely reflect the situations participants may encounter in the real world. Learning continues after the course through written feedback reports, our Members' Area and 30 days' complimentary access to Thirty Seven, our AI-powered communication coach.

Realism sits at the heart of our approach.

Trainers with journalistic experience interview participants and understand how interviews develop, how challenging questions are asked, and how stories are shaped. Exercises are designed around realistic scenarios and the types of questions participants are most likely to face.

Where appropriate, training can take place in professional studio environments, helping participants experience the pressure and dynamics of broadcast interviews before facing the real thing.

The ideal ratio depends on the training objectives, the delegates' experience, and the amount of interview practice required.

For most media training programmes, we typically work to a ratio of around one trainer for every three delegates. This approach ensures everyone receives sufficient interview practice, personalised coaching and detailed feedback.

Media training is not a presentation-based course. Participants improve by taking part in interviews, receiving expert feedback and applying what they have learned. Smaller groups create more opportunities for realistic practice, individual development and meaningful coaching.

For larger groups, we can provide additional trainers, camera technicians and breakout sessions to maintain the quality of the learning experience. This approach is reflected throughout many of our bespoke programme designs.

Sometimes yes. Sometimes no.

A mixed group can work extremely well when participants can learn from one another's experiences and face similar media challenges. Less experienced spokespeople often benefit from observing seasoned interviewees, while experienced delegates can gain fresh perspectives and feedback.

However, separating groups is sometimes more effective. Senior executives may require a different level of challenge, more strategic discussion or greater confidentiality. Likewise, participants with significantly different confidence levels can sometimes progress faster in separate groups.

We often recommend a blended approach, combining group sessions with one-to-one coaching for key spokespeople, senior leaders or individuals preparing for particularly high-profile media opportunities. Training is designed around the people involved rather than forcing delegates into a standard format.

Completely confidential.

Media training only works when participants feel comfortable testing ideas, making mistakes and receiving honest feedback. We create a safe environment where delegates can explore challenging issues, practise responses and discuss potential risks without concern.

Interview recordings, feedback and discussions remain confidential unless explicitly agreed otherwise. Many organisations use training to test sensitive scenarios, prepare for announcements, explore difficult stakeholder issues or assess media readiness ahead of significant events.

The purpose of the training is development and preparedness, not evaluation.

Many talented freelance media trainers are available, and some organisations may find a freelancer the right solution for their needs.

However, larger organisations often require more than a single trainer.

Media First combines experienced journalist trainers, dedicated account management, professional camera technicians, studio facilities, course design support, post-course feedback reporting, online learning resources and ongoing development through Thirty Seven. We can also scale programmes across multiple teams, locations and levels of seniority while maintaining consistency and quality.

For organisations seeking reassurance, resilience and long-term capability building, that broader support structure can be just as important as the training itself.

We believe media skills are strengthened through continued practice, not a single training session.

Delegates receive detailed written feedback reports outlining their strengths, development priorities and practical recommendations. They also receive 30 days' complimentary access to Thirty Seven, our AI-powered communication coach, enabling them to continue practising media interviews and communication skills after the course.