Ready, Steady, Radio Live!

 Budding radio presenters and technicians had the opportunity to work with professionals at a fun and educational workshop held at Commonweal School this week. 84 top set ICT students, which included a core group of 17 Gifted and Talented, spent the day with Russell Prue and Darren Dixie from Anderton Tiger to create a 30 min magazine programme which went out live on the internet later that day.

Megan Harvey, aged 12, was a feature presenter on the show. “The day was really exciting , but I felt nervous in case I made a mistake. The best bit was the live broadcast. I think I will now join Commonweal School Radio Club,” she said.

“It was a new way to learn ICT skills. The most exciting thing was when I read out the news and the weather, it was a fantastic day!” said Harry Martin, aged 12.

Russell has teamed up with Clyde Broadcast, experts in audio broadcast facilities for radio stations and educational organisations of all sizes and complexity in the UK and internationally, to bring students one of the most exciting workshops ever.  Their clients include Classic FM, TalkSport, Virgin, Heart FM, Galaxy, LBC, Sky News and BBC Wales.  The group was split up into teams to work on the individual components that went into making the radio show.  One team worked on news, another weather, sport, and features. “ The workshop was a brilliant way to engage students, promote student voice and develop critical thinking skills in a safe secure environment.” Commented Keith Defter, Headteacher. “  This is different to podcasting, this is live, high pressure, on the button radio, and there's nothing like it to motivate learners, said Russell Prue. “ I hope that the experience helps motivate and inspire your learners, and what lovely people they are exceptionally polite and creative.” He added

“Commonweal is a very successful school for ICT in Swindon. Julia Rose, Head of ICT is a star and subject leader for the borough and disseminates good ICT practice across the town. Each year Commonweal results go up year on year.” Said Anna Dorricott, Secondary IT Consultant for Swindon LEA.

Click here to listen to the radio show!