The applications for the Learning Waves Journalism Graduate Programme 2024 are now open. This previous iteration highlights the dedication of the Independent Radio Sector, Coimisiún na Meán, and Learning Waves Skillnet in cultivating the next wave of journalistic talent. With each passing year, the Journalism Graduate Programme continues to evolve, solidifying it’s reputation as a pivotal platform for budding journalists eager to make their mark in the dynamic world of radio. In 2023 the programme was awarded the Best Graduate Initiative at the Learning and Development Institute Awards.
In 2024 we are offering 10 graduates the opportunity to work in one of Ireland’s Independent Radio stations for a period of 5 months. The programme offers extensive hands-on training, providing students with the essential skills required to excel across various departments of a radio station, including newsroom operations, current affairs, and sports broadcasting. Each student is paired with a dedicated mentor from their assigned radio station, ensuring personalised guidance throughout their training journey. Participants will engage in a structured training curriculum facilitated by Learning Waves, further enhancing their industry knowledge and expertise.
In assessing the application for the 2024 programme, the assessors acknowledged the ambition of the 2024 programme and the emphasis on inclusivity and equality of access. The programme will allow graduates to build their portfolios and create new programme content which will be reflective of the station’s audiences.
In addition to having the opportunity to create and broadcast content, graduates can avail of the opportunity to obtain a Diploma in Broadcast Journalism from the London College of Music on successful completion of the programme. Of the ten graduates who took part in the programme in 2024, 8 are now working full-time in the sector across stations including LMFM, Clare FM, Shannonside, Classic Hits and Newstalk.
As we embark on the 2024 programme, it’s worth reflecting on the remarkable journey of the 2023 graduates. Below is the feedback from the 2023 graduates:
“I got to work in a great station and to get out of my comfort zone. Working on my initiative and coming up with ideas was something I was able to develop – the feedback from my mentor, Emer O’Hea, was invaluable. Being able to read the news was a highlight. I was still very fresh from college so being put into a working newsroom, sourcing the news and reporting the news, is an experience that has been invaluable. I would like to thank Learning Waves and Cork’s 96FM for the experience.” Steven Fox
“The programme was great, I can’t think of any negatives. From day one it was hands on, picking up the phone and cold calling people. The second week I was there I was sent out to RTÉ to cover the Patrick Kielty announcement as the new Late Late Show host. I was also one of the first people on the scene at the Dublin riots on O’Connell Street. I never thought I could do things like that but the Journalism Graduate Programme gave me the confidence. I feel more confident as a journalist.” Eoin Glackin
“The Journalism Graduate Programme gets you ready for the industry. I think it was very comprehensive – we covered all areas of broadcasting. It was an all round programme for me – news, programming, arts, culture, sports. The experience made me more confident interviewing people, honing my researching skills and note taking. Voice training in particular was a massive help. Before I completed the programme I would have been very wary about applying to places or trying to get into the sector. Now I know I would have confidence applying for jobs. The future’s looking good. I’m still with FM104 working in a freelance capacity.” David Seagrave
To apply for the programme go to : https://bit.ly/LWJGP24. Applications close on 24th May 2024.
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