Radio station launched by students in Honiton

BUDDING DJs from Honiton Community College are ruling the air waves after launching their own radio station.

Radio HCC currently broadcasts twice a day and you don’t have to be at the college to tune in. Breakfast and lunchtime shows can be heard by anyone in the town centre, or from anywhere online.

The radio station is the brainchild of college principal Glenn Smith.

his idea won the support of governors before attracting funding from the 14 to 19 Partnership, part of Devon County Council.

Radio industry expert David Bryant built the station and, with the addition of an extra computer server, it is anticipated that pre-recorded shows will play on a loop in between live broadcasts.

“I felt that it was a great opportunity to develop another aspect of the students’ education,” said Mr Smith.

He pointed out that, while the college enjoys specialist status in science and mathematics, it has recently introduced courses in performing arts and the media.

“Our aim is to give everyone a rounded education,” said Mr Smith.

“It is a fabulous way to communicate with the college. There is no need for messages to be read out in tutor groups, because students can listen to them on the radio.”

Mr Smith is keen to attract sponsorship to develop the radio station further.

A talented team is running the station - Alex Jackson, 15, Bethany Hibbert, 16, Andrew Moth, 15, Maisie Hill, 16, Lewis Gillingham, 15, Foyez Rahman, 17, and Loren Comier, 17.

The Mayor of Honiton, Councillor Peter Fleming, and business leaders were among those to attend the radio station’s official launch at the college early last Wednesday morning.

Apart from the professionalism of the presenters, guests were pleasantly surprised to learn that music played on the radio station is performed by students - including some extremely talented singers.

You can listen to Radio HCC by tuning in to 87.7 FM. Alternatively, visit www.wix.com/honitoncollege/radiohcc

Live shows are broadcast week days during term time from 8.30am to 8.50am and from 1.10pm to 1.50pm.

Anybody interested in sponsoring the radio station is urged to contact the school office.