Minutes:
Steve Dobson from Penistone FM was welcomed to the meeting. Members were provided an overview of the project that had been funded through the Working Together Fund.
Young people were offered the opportunity to undergo training as a presenter or interviewer and were offered work experience, either at the station or elsewhere. 12 young people were engaged, which was above the original target. The difficulties in engaging students during the day were noted, with the majority of young people being engaged through the enrichment programme at Penistone Grammar School.
Members heard how a variety of training was offered, including in the studio. Students created drama, sound effects, did editing and added music. Those taking part had talks about careers in radio, from a representative at Radio Sheffield and many volunteered as presenters and interviewers at Penistone FM.
It was noted that 2 students passed their NCFE level 1 qualification, with 1 further ready for verification and 3 continuing to work towards this.
Work experience was offered within the station on such as outside broadcasts, but also to produce stories for the Look Local newspaper.
The impact on each of the young people taking part was acknowledged, these included improvements in confidence, and giving experiences outside the normal comfort zone. Also noted was the number of young people going on to jobs or higher education in journalism or in media.
Looking to the future Members heard of plans to develop a new approach to work with young people focussing on mental health, to highlight the difficulties they face, using podcasts to enable discussion about these.
Members praised the work of Penistone FM, including with Penistone Grammar School, and the unique opportunity the station offered within the area.
RESOLVED that thanks be given for the presentation and the positive contribution all involved with Penistone FM provide.