Academy for Disabled Journalists Student Julie McElroy Makes History as First Female Frame Runner to Complete London Marathon

Dr Julie McElroy with support runner Gill Menzies & Steve Brown at the TCS London Marathon

Dr Julie McElroy aged 37 from Glasgow, a student at the Academy for Disabled Journalists (ADJ), recently made history as the first female frame runner to complete the 2024 TCS London Marathon. Julie, who recently qualified with an NCTJ Certificate in Foundation Journalism through the Academy and is gearing up to start the Diploma, crossed the finish line in five hours and 59 minutes, showcasing incredible determination and perseverance alongside her support runner Gill Menzies.

This remarkable achievement is the result of months of intensive training and unwavering dedication. Julie's journey exemplifies resilience and the spirit of overcoming obstacles, underscoring the importance of inclusivity and empowerment in sports.

Her success at the marathon demonstrates that with dedication, the sky is truly the limit for what individuals with disabilities can achieve.

Julie's success is a testament to the transformative power of the ADJ, an initiative led by Ability Today that empowers disabled individuals in the media industry. Her journey at the ADJ parallels the determination she displayed at the London Marathon. In a world where representation matters, Julie's achievement underscores the importance of providing platforms for diverse voices to be heard, following other student alumni now working as full-time journalists at the BBC, ITV, and Newsquest.

The Academy (ADJ), now in its fifth year of partnership with the NCTJ, offers unique accessible Diploma and entry-level (CFJ) online courses designed to equip disabled students with the skills and confidence needed to pursue a career in journalism. Starting on May 30, 2024, the next Certificate in Foundation Journalism course consists of weekly 1.5-hour online sessions over nine months, providing a flexible distance-learning format supplemented by self-study and assessments tailored to accommodate the needs of disabled learners.

Accessibility lies at the heart of the ADJ's mission. Traditional educational and workplace settings often overlook the unique requirements of disabled individuals. Working in partnership with the NCTJ, delivering unique courses, providing the necessary tools and support for every student to succeed.

Online classes are customised to meet the diverse needs of disabled learners, creating a supportive environment where talent can thrive without barriers.

With over 90 individuals empowered to pursue successful media careers through the ADJ, success stories like Julie's are not uncommon. Alumni of the program, such as Emily Davison, have gone on to work for Newsquest, Matt Bassett at the BBC, Jamie Green at ITV, and many students working as freelancers for prestigious publications, demonstrating the impact of Ability Today's support in breaking down barriers and creating pathways to success for disabled individuals.

Founded by Grant Logan in 2014, himself disabled after a road accident, is inspired by the belief that disability should never hinder one's ability to pursue their passions.

Grant's own experience serves as a driving force behind the ADJ's mission to raise self-belief and confidence among disabled individuals, creating a more inclusive and diverse media landscape.

Julie's journey is just one example of the talent waiting to be unlocked within the disabled community. As we celebrate her achievements, we invite interested applicants to join us on this transformative journey. 

The Academy is about to embark on its next search for a talented cohort of disabled students to study the CFJ, students will need to submit a 300-word news article via the Ability Today website by May 16th for a chance to embark on their own path to success in journalism.

Limited spots are available for the prestigious CFJ course, accredited by the NCTJ. Additionally, the ADJ will be offering its third Diploma level later this year, providing further opportunities for career advancement.

"We've only just scratched the surface of what's possible," says Grant Logan. "There's still a massive lack of talent behind the scenes in newsrooms and production companies. The journalism industry is tough to crack, and for journalists with disabilities, the barriers are even higher."

As we continue to forge working partnerships with leading organisations such as News UK, Business Insider, The NUJ, Newsquest and many more, the ADJ is committed to breaking down barriers and championing diversity in the media.

Recently, two of our students were invited to participate in CNN's diversity and inclusion open day, highlighting the progress we've made and the opportunities that lie ahead.