What is Radio ECHO?
It’s a lively, fun, music based Radio Station with two shows a week which are broadcast live
What would I do if I joined?
You would help write the show and then be involved in the broadcast! On both days, the teams start with a blank page and devise what they will do in the show. They then set up the broadcast equipment, sound check and then go live for an hour and a half or more, recording the show so it can be released later as a podcast.
What would I get from attending?
You would learn about using the equipment – microphones, mixing desk, DJ software and more – as well as improving your IT skills and becoming confident in front of a mic.
You would also be finding out about working in a team, respecting different ideas, working very hard, learning from mistakes – all whilst having the most fun possible.
The teams rotate roles every week to maximise their learning and experience. These include:
- News reading and making announcements
- DJ-ing music and jingles
- Presenting their own features
- Learning to use microphones, the mixing desk and other technical equipment
- Working as a team to a tight deadline
- Aiming for excellence and broadcast quality
Here’s what some of the current team members say about Radio ECHO:
“It’s really good, we come in in the morning, research the news, then we compile the songs, put them into the script and by the afternoon we are ready for our broadcast. It’s nice to know that people come on to support Radio ECHO because it’s really, really great, it’s brilliant…”
“In the morning we have nothing, we don’t have a single word written down, just some songs and some jingles we have made – so you start with absolutely nothing and you finish at 3.30 with a finalised broadcast…”
“Over the last four months I’ve been doing some jingles, playing some music and being a news reader. I’ve never done them before. I feel as proud now at Radio ECHO as I did on my first day!”
“I definitely feel more confident with my reading…”
When do the sessions happen?
Radio ECHO is open Tuesdays and Fridays, 9.30am – 3.30pm and can found at ECHO Smart Space, 19 West Street, Leominster, HR6 8EP
If you need to contact the project directly, then please call 07989 403546
When do the sessions happen?
Radio ECHO is open Tuesdays and Fridays, 9.30am – 3.30pm and can found at ECHO Smart Space, 19 West Street, Leominster, HR6 8EP
What experience/abilities are required?
Essentially, none, participants will receive full training. Some IT, verbal and literacy skills are useful but the Radio ECHO team will work to maximise engagement with any individual. An interest in/passion for music is advantageous
What outcomes can be expected?
Practical Skills/Knowledge/Learning:
- Using search engines safely to research news stories, sports, entertainment and so on
- Copying/pasting text/contributing towards a broadcast script
- Sound/audio skills: Using DJ software to cue up & play music & jingles
- Speech/announcing: Working with microphones appropriately, speaking, reading clearly/at the correct pace, verbal skills allowing
Group Work:
- Exchanging ideas/production content/choosing and ordering music selections
- Taking turns in different broadcast roles/sharing equipment
- Supporting other team members during broadcasts
Personal/transferable Outcomes:
- Increased confidence/pride in achievement/increased self-worth
- Social interaction
- Increased interest in current affairs
- Ability to take/give direction and instructions
- Aiming for highest possible quality
What does a place cost?
ECHO is an approved provider with Herefordshire Council and so the cost of attending a day activity such as Radio ECHO can often be included in a support plan. We accept commissioned places, direct payments or self funded attendees. The current daily cost is £60.83
How do I take a referral forwards?
Go to Making a referral, which provides the contact details of ECHO’s Referral Manager and tells you everything you need to know to move the process forwards.
