Students given unique insight into production of BBC Radio Merseyside’s longest running programme

This year’s MA Mass Communications students were recently given a unique insight into the production of Folkscene, BBC Radio Merseyside’s longest running programme.

Presenter Mike Brocken gave students a tour of the studio, explaining how the state-of-art radio desks work.

This was followed by an ‘in conversation’ event in which MA Mass Communications Programme Leader, Nedim Hassan, asked Mike about various aspects of the production process for Folkscene. 

Topics of conversation included the continuing significance of the BBC’s public service ethos for local radio, as well as how recent developments such as the establishment of the BBC Sounds platform has influenced the listenership.

Commenting on the value of the event, Nedim said that: “This was a fantastic opportunity for our students, a number of whom are international and would not normally be able to gain an insider’s perspective on a world-leading institution like the BBC.”

Nedim continued: “Presenter Mike Brocken was very generous with his time and he provided some fascinating insights into contemporary public service radio broadcasting at both a local and national level.

“We were also really fortunate that this opportunity also occurred in the same week that students heard a guest lecture from BBC Radio Merseyside’s Dave Monks, himself one of LJMU’s alumni. Dave told the students all about the BBC Introducing scheme and how this is a vital resource for enabling local musicians to gain exposure on radio and at live festivals.”

“These are subjects that the students have a chance to write about for one of their core modules and I am sure these events will have given them lots of ideas and inspiration, both in relation to their studies and possibly their future careers”