Winchester graduate with rare condition wins BBC apprenticeship

Ben Morris, 22, completed the University’s journalism course in 2022. One of 22 successful applicants, he will begin his apprenticeship at London’s Broadcasting House in September.

Born with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), Ben was not expected to live past his second birthday. This rare genetic condition causes a breakdown of nerve cells which means the brain stops sending out the messages that control muscle movement.

Ben as depicted in the University of Winchester 2023 Prospectus (Image: University of Winchester)His movement is severely restricted, but Ben manages to operate his electric wheelchair and do all his work – whether that’s typing a story or editing a radio programme – with just the use of his right index finger.

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Ben said: “I have had reporters talking to me all my life.

“When I was younger I wanted to be a scientist or a doctor to try to find a cure for my own condition but then I realised I wasn’t very good at science!

“So, I thought ‘Let’s do something I know about’ and I am good at talking so I chose journalism.

“I loved the course at Winchester. It definitely gave me a solid base and more to continue doing what I want to do. The lecturers were incredibly supportive, and they really know what they are doing.”

Senior lecturer in the School of Media and Film, Brian Thornton, said that the university had made every effort to remove any barriers which would have hampered Ben’s ability to complete the course. He also said that he was not surprised by Ben’s success.

Ben with fellow University of Winchester graduates (Image: University of Winchester)Brian said: “We always knew he was going to make it – he is naturally inquisitive and a good communicator.”

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“Ben shines in front of the microphone or camera and I’m sure we will be seeing him on screens in years to come.”

Brian added that the BBC scheme was the gold standard of apprenticeships and to gain a place was a “colossal achievement”.

Since graduating Ben has been working as a volunteer at his hometown radio station Swindon 105.5, where he has presented current affairs programmes, edited other people’s shows, and acted as a ‘teacher’, passing on some of the knowledge he gained at Winchester to fellow volunteers. He also completed work experience training with the Hampshire Chronicle in Winchester.