Press Release by Exeter College Journalism Academy student Kieran Lewis

Exeter College's new student radio station, Spark Radio, was launched on Tuesday by students Ellie Thomas and Kerenza Teague. Ben Clark and Paul Nero from Radio Exe cut the ribbon at the event, while other industry professionals came along to give their support to the station, which will start broadcasting regular shows from 10th June across the college.

Students taking part in the radio enrichment programme have been busy preparing shows since November and have worked with Ben Woodhouse, Media Lecturer at the college, at the studio which is located in the Centre for Creative Industries.

As the Programme Controller, he said “Spark Radio is a really positive thing for students. If we are to train the next generation of journalists and broadcasters, we need the latest equipment and connections to local industry professionals to develop talent.”
At the launch event, students asked the college Principal, Richard Atkins, what he thought about creativity and the new station.

“Creativity is an important part of life and the college. The Centre for Creative Industries is a great place to host the radio station.”

He also thinks that the practical experience gained from using the studio will allow students to develop their talents while also learning more about the industry.

“The radio station will be able to bridge the gap between education and industry.”

The station is being supported by partners in the local media such as Radio Exe. Managing Director Paul Nero gave tips to students on how to get into the radio industry and stressed how important experience is.

“If you want to be a professional broadcaster you need miles on the clock. Now there's the facility to do this and to progress, for future students at Exeter College.”

Ashley Jeary, a former Exeter College student who now presents at Radio Exe, said that the station is a positive addition to the college. He thinks it will be “a fantastic experience, especially for the college and students involved. It's going to be a great facility for students. I would have loved it when I was a student here!”

The studio features industry-standard equipment, following significant investment last summer.

Radio Exe breakfast presenter Ben Clark described it as an “absolutely fantastic facility. For all students it's definitely something to be proud of.”

Student Representative Committee Officer Ruaidhri Horgan said that “it's quite impressive to see [Spark Radio] come together as something that will really contribute to student life at Exeter College. The launch is a momentous occasion which signals the start of something exciting.”

Michael Chequer from the BBC said that radio stations like Spark Radio allow students to get a real taste of what radio is like.

“It's fantastic. Student radio is where I got my passion and background from – in a competitive industry it gives you the skills and experience that will make you stand out.”
Enrichment students, who attend a weekly session where they are taught presentation and production skills see it as a great opportunity.

Ollie Stone, 17, said that Spark Radio gives students the chance to build their confidence in a relaxed environment.

“The station allows students to come out of their shells and express themselves.”

Steph Herbert, 17, said “Exeter College needs a radio station to spread announcements around the many different departments – improving cross college communication.”

Kerenza Teague who launched the station with Ellie Thomas initially felt daunted by the responsibility of opening the station.

“It was nerve-wracking but it was very enjoyable in the end – it’s a real step forward for me and a milestone for the college, it was great to be involved! Being part of the Radio Station means I can demonstrate my communications skills whilst sharing my passion for music.”

Katie Wild, Head of the Media and Performing Arts Faculty at Exeter College, is optimistic about the future of the station and confident that it will be something students will find useful in the future.

“I'm absolutely delighted, not just in terms of enrichment, but also in the potential to expand the curriculum and available progression routes. Practical experience is essential and it's brilliant for students to develop their skills with professional support.”

Sam Bigwood, 18, said that “it's all been very well organised.” “I can't wait to get started with shows next month!”