LGS alum Climbs the Journalism Ladder
Jonathan Rose (LGS 2014) has recently been promoted to Senior News Reporter at The Sun, one of the UK’s leading newspapers. Jonathan has swiftly climbed the ranks in the competitive world of journalism, making a significant impact at both The Sun and MailOnline in just over three years as a staff journalist.
Reflecting on his time at LGS, Jonathan fondly recalls the vibrant extracurricular activities that defined his school years. “So many memories come to mind… they include rugby, CCF engineers, and the Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. It’s funny because the things which first come to mind for me are mostly extracurricular activities!” He emphasised the importance of seizing the opportunities LGS offers, attributing much of his personal development to these experiences.
Although his professional path took him into journalism, Jonathan holds dear the memories of his time on the LGS stage. “Some of my fondest memories at LGS revolve around Drama during my GCSE years. I felt at home on the stage, and it was probably the only lesson I was never late for!” He credits his Drama teacher, Mrs Louise Welsby, for inspiring him to think critically and delve beyond the obvious, skills that have proven invaluable in his journalism career.
Jonathan’s love for history, fostered by the School’s Gothic architecture and rich heritage, also influenced his academic journey. “I don’t think it’s a coincidence that I would go on to study History at university. Being part of one of England’s oldest schools fuelled a desire to learn more about the past.”
After earning his degree in History from the University of Warwick, Jonathan’s route to journalism was anything but straightforward. “I never had a set plan or desire to go into journalism. In fact, I didn’t even write for either the School or university paper.” It wasn’t until an internship at The Times that Jonathan found his calling. “I instantly knew I could do the job and probably be quite good at it! Nothing was going to stop me working at a national newspaper.”
In his current role at The Sun, Jonathan specialises in breaking news, often working under intense pressure to deliver accurate stories at speed. “No one day is the same, and you always have to be prepared for a big incident, which can be stressful but equally exhilarating. It never fails to amaze me how hundreds of thousands of people read MY words every day!”
Looking back on his career so far, Jonathan highlights his coverage of major events like the pandemic, the Queen’s death, and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as some of his proudest moments. He’s also had the chance to interview high-profile figures such as Michael Owen and Lewis Moody.
As for his advice to current LGS students, Jonathan encourages them to take risks and be persistent. “Don’t be afraid to send emails to editors. I was bold and thought, ‘What have I got to lose?’ It’s often who you know, not what you know, that’s needed to get that first job.”
Looking ahead, Jonathan has his sights set on even greater achievements, including becoming a national newspaper editor one day.