Recently, the United Response Employment Team took some of our college students on a trip to the BBC studios in Plymouth. 

Organised by Sam Bastow, Learning Mentor for the United Response Employment Team in Devon, the trip took two students, Freya and Luke, along with Hazel, an Employability Tutor, and Edward (Tomo), our Employer Engagement Job Coach, to BBC South West — home to BBC Radio Devon and BBC Spotlight.  

For Freya and Luke, who have a real passion for the creative industries, it was the perfect chance to see a professional studio in action 

Stepping Into the Studio 

This fun day out was made possible by Jo Loosemore, Presenter at BBC Radio Devon, after she was interviewed by Sam Bastow for a World Radio Day special on ROC College Radio. 

During the visit, the group toured the radio and TV studios, the newsroom, and the TV gallery. They got to meet and chat with producers, newsreaders, crew members and the weather reporter, learning about the many interesting roles that keep broadcasts running smoothly. 

One of the main highlights of the day was getting to sit on the coveted red Spotlight Couch, and then watching the later lunchtime broadcast from behind the scenes in the TV Gallery. Sam and Tomo even had a go at reading news stories from the autocue, so that everyone had a chance to feel what it’s like to be on air. 

For Freya, the experience was a real eye-opener: 

“I didn’t even realise there was a BBC Radio studio in Plymouth. I’ve grown up with the BBC, so I couldn’t stop talking to the person giving the tour!” 

Learning and looking ahead 

With Luke having been previously enrolled on the ROC College radio course, and Freya currently enrolled on it, this trip provided the perfect opportunity to bring their learning to life in a practical and inspiring way!  

Reflecting on the day, Freya said: 

“My visit to the BBC Radio Devon Studios in Plymouth was an amazing experience. We went round different rooms, like the Spotlight studio and the weather room. I even got to sit on the famous Spotlight sofa and see behind the scenes of the lunchtime news and how it all works.” 

The day offered a fascinating insight into how broadcasting works and the many teams involved in bringing news and radio to audiences every day. For students interested in media and broadcasting, it was an inspiring glimpse into what a future career in the industry could look like. 

When asked whether she’d return for another visit, Freya said: 

“I enjoyed the experience, there was a lot to take in and process but it was a great day and if you’re a fan of TV and radio I would recommend it.” 

A huge thank you goes to Jo Loosemore and the team at BBC South West for making this wonderful visit possible and for being so welcoming, friendly and generous with their time. 

Find out more about our Employment Team