Join the Roch Valley Radio Academy

Learn new skills. Get creative. Make your voice heard.

Roch Valley Radio is launching a brand-new academy for young people across Rochdale, Bury, Bolton and Oldham.

Whether you’re interested in music, radio, social media, journalism, podcasting or creating content, the Roch Valley Radio Academy will give you the chance to learn practical skills, meet new people and gain hands-on experience in a real community radio environment.

You don’t need any previous experience. You just need to be interested, willing to learn and ready to get involved.

Places are limited, so complete the form below to register your interest.

Choose your Academy route

You can choose the route that best matches your interests.

Music, Production & Radio - Community Participation

For young people up to the age of 18 - This route is ideal for young people who are interested in music, broadcasting and working behind the scenes in a radio station.

You could learn how to:

• Use a professional radio studio
• Present and produce radio programmes
• Record and edit audio
• Create jingles, features and podcasts
• Plan music-based radio shows
• Develop music production skills
• Interview guests and artists
• Work confidently with microphones and studio equipment

Sign up for Community Radio

Youth Voices

This route is for young people who want to share ideas, tell stories and create content about the issues that matter to them.

You could learn how to:

• Create engaging social media content
• Write articles, news stories and reviews
• Record podcasts and interviews
• Produce short-form video content
• Develop journalism and reporting skills
• Plan campaigns and creative projects
• Tell stories from your local community
• Build confidence when speaking and presenting

Youth Voices will give you a platform to express yourself, develop your ideas and help represent young people across our area.

Sign up for Youth Voices

Who can apply?

We are looking for young people from across:

Rochdale, Bury, Bolton and Oldham.

The Academy is suitable for complete beginners as well as young people who already create music, videos, podcasts, articles or social media content.

We welcome applications from young people of all backgrounds and abilities.

Support can be discussed for anyone who may need help taking part.

What will you gain?

By joining the Roch Valley Radio Academy, you will have the chance to:

• Learn practical media and communication skills
• Gain experience in a working radio station
• Build confidence and improve your communication
• Meet other creative young people
• Work on real broadcasts and media projects
• Create content for radio, online and social media
• Build work that can be added to a portfolio
• Learn more about careers in radio, music, journalism and digital media
• Receive support from experienced members of the Roch Valley Radio team

Most importantly, you’ll have a space where your ideas, creativity and voice are valued.

What Happens Next?

Once you submit the form, a member of the Roch Valley Radio team will review your application and contact you with more information.

We may invite you to an informal conversation or introductory session. This is not a formal interview, and there is no need to prepare anything. It is simply a chance for us to learn more about your interests and for you to ask questions about the Academy.

Submitting the form does not automatically guarantee a place. We will explain the selection process, session dates and next steps when we contact you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need any experience?

No. You do not need any previous experience in radio, music production, journalism or content creation. The Academy is designed to help you learn.

Does it cost anything to take part?

It doesn't cost anything to take part.

Where will the sessions take place?

Sessions will be booked in advance and will happen across different parts of the borough, as well as in our radio station studios.

How old do I need to be?

The Youth projects are for young people up to the age of 21.

Can I choose both routes?

Yes. You can tell us that you are interested in both routes. We can help you decide which option is most suitable.

Will I be on the radio?

There will be many opportunities to contribute to broadcasts, podcasts, and online content. You will receive training and support before taking part in any public-facing activity.

Do I need my own equipment?

No specialist equipment is required unless we tell you otherwise. Roch Valley Radio will provide access to the equipment needed during Academy sessions.

Who should I contact if I have a question?

Email academy@rochvalleyradio.com