For many young people a career in the entertainment industry is the ultimate dream; whether it be as a presenter, producer or in a technical role. Here, Andrew Doree, head of languages at Sandhurst School, Bracknell explores the benefits of radio broadcast equipment within education and how it can positively support young people’s learning.
We first came across radio broadcast equipment in 2007 whilst looking for an innovative and engaging way to motivate our students. After researching various technologies we decided to implement Clyde Broadcast’s, Synergy School Radio System; not only does the broadcasting equipment aid learning and provide transferable skills, but it also supplies an element of fun to the school day. The cross-curricular and extra-curricular benefits are endless. We wanted to ensure that we invested wisely, and that our procurement would deliver a strong return on investment. We felt this particular solution with its integrated digital technology would achieve this after seeing a demonstration which emphasised its ease of use.
Daily radio broadcasts heightens learning
We have a live daily radio show which the students manage all aspects of, and, to ensure fairness, we have a rota. Through Sandhurst Radio, we want to achieve inclusivity and although students are required to go through an application process, we constantly encourage new involvement. However, an essential requisite from learners is commitment and dedication due to the challenging nature of working on a radio station.
Bringing the curriculum to life
Cross-curricular learning can be achieved and a new dimension applied to education. A key example of this was when Year 9s selected their Key Stage 3 subjects; each subject teacher recorded themselves discussing their subject for the learners to listen to via the Internet. English teachers are able to make recordings of the plays being studied, whilst for Modern Foreign Languages, the Synergy equipment is utilised to develop learning resources, for students to interview one another and also to create radio shows in other languages. One of the outcomes is a notable improvement in vocabulary and confidence when speaking.
Empowering beyond the classroom
We have found that our students have flourished in being able to express themselves and share ideas with each other. Sandhurst Radio broadcasts before and after school and also during break times; we have a dedicated and passionate team of DJs and technical support, constantly striving to further their skills and make every effort to ensure the station is exciting. Consequently, these students gain the transferable and valuable skills necessary to work on a radio station or alternatively these skills could be transferred to other positions and more widely to everyday life. For example, acting as the host of a radio show helps to improve communication skills and build confidence, whilst editing the show enhances a learner’s attention to detail.
For budding singers, every Friday lunchtime we have a live singing session. Students can sing in front of their friends and have fun, something hugely beneficial not only in terms of its ability to boost confidence, but it also adds enjoyment to their overall educational journey.
Motivating factor
Our students’ confidence continues to improve immensely through using the broadcast equipment. Something particularly empowering for learners is when they have the opportunity to demonstrate their skills to friends and it is inspiring to see the level of pride displayed. Contributing towards the production of a radio station requires skill and dedication and is hugely challenging; in fact we often have a role reversal with the students teaching us educators how it is used!
Whether the students’ involvement in the radio station is through editing, presenting or producing, and whether they are simply involved for fun or because it links to their dream career, it provides huge motivational and inspirational value.
Community spirit
Sandhurst Radio enables learners to develop and nurture relationships within the local community. For example, local services, including the fire, police, student-council and health services also feature on the school’s programmes, providing learners with positive communication skills, as well as a sense of ownership and responsibility for a community wide project. We also broadcast recordings of the live show onto local station, Radio Bracknell, requiring a high level of professionalism.
Synergy School Radio has been an extremely positive acquisition for the school, and although we use it extensively, there is infinite scope to further maximise its potential. It is now such an inherent part of daily life here, that if we did not have it we would be lost! If ever a broadcast does not happen for some reason, everyone misses it hugely.
