A SCHOOL is hoping to pave the way for future broadcasters after launching their very own radio studio. 

The new start-of-the-art suite has been set up at the King John School, in Shipwrights Drive, Thundersley to help pupils take their media studies to the next dimension.

Pupils will be able to assist with the production of live broadcasts from Gateway Radio, who will be hosting shows there every week on issues such as anti-bullying campaigns and study skills.

When the show is off air, students will be able to create their own radio programmes to be broadcast in the canteen at lunchtimes as well as using the suite for their coursework.

Six pioneering year 11 students have already qualified as mini-producers after gaining a NCFE in Radio Production, and will be mentoring their peers on how to use the new facilities. 

Alan Mechem, head of media studies, said: “This is such an exciting opportunity for our pupils, to not only gain vital experience in producing a live radio show, but also to use these new high tech facilities to make radio adverts and programmes to better their coursework.

“The students absolutely love it and we are over the moon to be able to provide this new technology for them.”

A new radio club has also been set up every Monday offering extracurricular learning in radio production.

This comes weeks after the school announced it would be expanding its Arts Academy after only 10 months in the making.

Plans have also been submitted to expand the Sixth Form as the school is struggling to cope with the intake of students.

Mr Mechem added: “We have always been very good in our media studies, but now I think with this new radio station, offering a unique method of learning, we are a touch above the rest.”

Residents will be able to tune into the show between 10am and 1pm every  Tuesday at 97.8, Gateway FM.