Student broadcaster is honoured for his hard work and commitment
Second year student Joshua Dodd has won a Barton Peveril Award for volunteering at the Southampton community radio station Unity 101. The 17 year old is part of the college’s team of presenters on the student radio show on Wednesday afternoons (2:00pm – 3:00pm) and also trains new recruits.
“I have always been interested in broadcasting and would like to make it my career,” explains Joshua, who has cerebral palsy. “I’m keen to show that having a disability doesn’t stop you from getting involved. The radio station allows us to be flexible with the show as long as we include weather and traffic reports. And I’ve introduced themes to the show such as ‘guilty pleasures’ with cheesy music to give it a focus.”
The weekly radio show is part of Barton’s wide-ranging enrichment programme where students can get involved with new and exciting activities alongside their studies. Other choices include photography, choir, conservation, debating, sports, languages and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
Joshua’s broadcasting skills have been noticed by another city community station, Voice FM which asked him to present its Saturday breakfast show.
Barton Principal Jonathan Prest says: “Joshua is an excellent student; very professional in the shows he has hosted and helpful to others who are new to broadcasting. He has also been instrumental in raising money for a charity to support children to go on amazing and challenging holidays.”
Joshua joined Barton from King’s School, Winchester. He is taking A levels in Media Studies, Drama and Theatre and History and has a place at the University of Winchester to study Media and Communications from September.
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