Roar News

Roar News. It is the official student newspaper of King's College London, published by the King's College London Students'Union. Founded in 2004, the publication serves as a primary platform for student journalism, covering campus affairs, university policy, and wider issues relevant to the student body in London and beyond. It operates with editorial independence under the auspices of the students' union, providing practical experience in media for aspiring journalists, writers, and editors.

History

The publication was established in 2004, merging and succeeding previous student media efforts at King's College London. Its creation was part of a broader movement to consolidate and professionalize student media offerings within the University of London. Early operations were based out of the Strand Campus, with the paper quickly becoming a fixture during key university events like freshers' week and student union elections. Over the years, its editorial stance has covered significant periods in the university's history, including student protests, changes in tuition fees, and debates surrounding the National Union of Students.

Content and coverage

The paper features a mix of news, opinion, features, culture, and sports content. Regular coverage includes reports on the activities of the King's College London Students' Union, university governance under the Principal of King's College London, and issues affecting the various campuses such as the Strand Campus, Guy's Campus, and Waterloo Campus. Investigative pieces have scrutinized college finances, mental health services, and the university's historical links to institutions like the British Empire. The culture section often reviews events in the West End theatre district and exhibitions at the National Portrait Gallery, while sports reporting follows teams like the King's College London Rugby Football Club.

Staff and contributors

Editorial leadership typically includes an Editor-in-Chief, Deputy Editor, and section editors for news, culture, and sports, all of whom are elected or appointed students. Notable past editors have gone on to careers at major outlets including The Guardian, BBC News, and Reuters. The staff is supported by a large cohort of volunteer contributors from across the university's faculties, including the Dickson Poon School of Law, the King's College London School of Medicine, and the Department of War Studies. Training and oversight are often provided in partnership with experienced journalists from organizations like the National Council for the Training of Journalists.

Impact and recognition

The publication has broken stories that have prompted responses from university administration and influenced student union policy. Its journalism has been recognized within the student media circuit, receiving nominations and awards at ceremonies like the Guardian Student Media Awards and the National Student Journalism Awards. Investigations into campus security, the ethical policies of the King's College London endowment, and student housing conditions have sparked debates in forums such as the University of London Senate and the London Assembly. It is considered an influential voice within the ecosystem of United Kingdom student newspapers.

Digital presence and operations

The paper maintains a comprehensive website and is active on social media platforms including Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Digital operations allow for real-time reporting on events such as University of London conferences and London Marathon participation by student groups. The transition to digital-first publishing has expanded its reach to alumni and the wider London community. Online content often includes multimedia elements, podcasts produced in collaboration with King's College London Students' Union, and live coverage of annual events like the King's College London graduation ceremonies.

Category:Student newspapers published in the United Kingdom Category:King's College London Category:Publications established in 2004 Category:Newspapers published in London