Co-curricular activities are an important part of the curriculum at Shiplake. Pupils are afforded the time to explore topics and interests outside of the set syllabus, and learn new skills that complement their learning. Most recently, pupils with a keen interest in computing, broadcasting and content have joined the newly-created Shiplake Podcast activity. Founded and run by Mr Adam Dimmick, the group aims to teach pupils how to write and produce a podcast, and then allow them the freedom to choose topics and publish these pieces online. The first podcast in the series has just gone live, and thank you to Mr Dimmick for the following report on the innovative activity.
‘Pupils will be producing a podcast that will be published publically on a regular cycle. Researching, writing and producing a podcast requires a great number of skills that the pupils will be developing over the course of the next half term. The group will be learning how to adopt roles such as editing, planning, script writing, presenting and reporting, as well as taking on board being audio technicians, sound artists and online podcast service administrators. In addition to these particular skills, taking part in such a project will naturally see pupils develop their abilities to work effectively in teams. Developing fresh, creative ideas will be key for the pupils, who will work together in smaller groups and ensure that they are moving between the roles. The groups will also be able to use state-of-the-art facilities in the John Turner Building in order to edit and publish their podcasts, which aids their understanding of technology in a fun and engaging way.
The very first podcasts have now been published, and members of the public can listen to them on both iTunes and SoundCloud. As the term progresses, I look forward to seeing the creative ideas that the groups put together and develop.’