The Student Radio Awards 2024

The Student Radio Awards are back for 2024 and entries are now OPEN! 

You’ll have until 8:00pm on the 26th of July to get your entries in. 

The ceremony will be held on 19th November at indigo at The O2 in London.

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How to enter:

Head to https://studentradio.awardsplatform.com/ and enter your email into the login box. If you already have an account just pop in your password, if not then you’ll be asked to register an account. Once you’re in just hit ‘Start Entry’ and fill in the details and submit your entry. Stations will be invoiced £5 for every entry so make sure to check with your station manager how to pay for your entry and that your station is a member of the Student Radio Association. Entries do not need to all be submitted at one time as these can be saved and updated at any time.

CATEGORIES 

Best Chart Show Programming

This is a special award presented by the Student Radio Association to honour the station deemed to have best hosted the Student Radio Chart Show. The award will primarily be judged on the presentation skills and production values demonstrated by the stations when they hosted the show, although the winning station must also have shown professionalism and consistency in being a part of the syndication. Creativity is also an important factor in this category, whilst maintaining a strong focus on the audience.

*Any station who hosted the Student Radio Chart Show can enter this category.

Audio: A 5-minute audio ‘best of’ for your show hosting the Student Radio Chart Show. You must state each clip in the Running Order. Please note that podcast content is not eligible for entry in this category.

Written: A maximum of 500 words about how the programme was presented and produced, with a particular emphasis on how ideas were created, developed, and incorporated into the overall programme.

Images: A maximum of 5 images can be uploaded in support of this entry.

Best Creative Speech Programming

This category recognises the creation of speech programming that is aimed to entertain. This can include comedy or scripted dramas, panel shows and programmes designed to make listeners laugh, as well as shows containing fictional content or readings. Talk shows are also valid for this category, provided they are not based on current affairs or presented in a news format, as are entertainment-based documentaries. Regardless of genre, the programming should be delivered with a professional level of presentation, including high production values, with a good depth of quality, creative content that engages with a student audience.

Audio: A compilation of the programme(s). Maximum audio entry length is 5 minutes. You must state each clip in the Running Order. Please note that podcast content is not eligible for entry in this category.

Written: A maximum of 500 words about how the programme was presented and produced, with a particular emphasis on the preparation and scripting process.

Best Entertainment Programming

This category recognises programming that forms part of the station’s entertainment output with a particular emphasis on the items and links within, acknowledging those responsible for devising, writing, and producing them. An example of the genre would be a breakfast programme. The judges will be looking for a well-presented, engaging, and entertaining programme that delivers a professional product to its audience and that has strong on-air content and features.

Audio: A compilation of the programme(s). Maximum audio entry length is 5 minutes. You must state each clip in the Running Order. Please note that podcast content is not eligible for entry in this category.

Written: A maximum of 500 words about how the programme was presented and produced, with a particular emphasis on how ideas were created, developed, and incorporated into the overall programme.

Best Event Programming

This category is for programmes that were produced outside of the station’s studios, but does not include sports coverage. Judges will be examining the way in which entries captured the essence of the event and how the OB connected with both the audience at the event and the audience listening to the programme. Your entry should clearly detail how  challenges were overcome in producing the broadcast. You can also use your written entry to tell the judges how you used technology to bring this broadcast to air, as well as how you promoted the event.

Audio: A compilation of the programme(s). Maximum audio entry length is 5 minutes. You must state each clip in the Running Order. Please note that podcast content is not eligible for entry in this category.

Written: A maximum of 1000 words about how the event/OB was planned, coordinated, and executed, with a particular emphasis on where, why, and how this coverage was achieved.

Images: A maximum of 10 images can be uploaded in support of this entry.

Best Interview

This category recognises one outstanding interview. Examples of Interviewees could be MPs, celebrities, bands, or university/students’ union staff. You should aim to give an overview of the interview, demonstrating the depth and quality of the content alongside the style and delivery of the interview, as well as the connection you developed with the interviewee. The judges will be looking to see that the interview was well prepared in advance and to get an understanding of your skills as an interviewer. Above all, this is about a strong interview that delivers a punch.

Audio: A single interview including the voice of the interviewer. Maximum audio entry length is 5 minutes. You must state each clip in the Running Order. Please note that podcast content is not eligible for entry in this category.

Written: A maximum of 500 words about how the interview was executed, with a particular emphasis on how it was arranged, researched, presented, and produced.

Best Multiplatform Initiative

This category recognises shows that have extended their reach by utilising multiplatform channels to engage with existing listeners and attract new ones.  You should look to demonstrate an effective use whichever platforms you have used, as well as showcasing your creativity in the content produced. The judges will want to see how you have engaged with the student audience in a manner that is appropriate for that audience whilst also remaining relevant to your on-air activity. Overall, this should be a strong campaign through different channels.

Audio: No audio submission is required.

Written: A maximum of 1000 words about the multi-platform channels you used, how you integrated these with your station/show, and how you use them to engage your audience.

Images: A maximum of 10 images can be uploaded in support of this entry.

Links: A maximum of 5 multimedia links can be uploaded in support of this entry. This cannot include any links to audio.

Best Newcomer

This category is for a member of a student radio station who has been involved for less than one year in student radio as a whole. They deserve particular recognition for their overall contribution to the station and not necessarily just their presenting efforts. This award is open to students who can provide details of their achievements not only on-air, but also off-air as well. The written description from the entrant should include information for the judges about how they got involved in the station. You should demonstrate their skills, whether on-air or off-air, as well as creativity and taking initiative. The judges will also be looking for examples of being involved as a team player in the student radio station and a demonstrable understanding of the medium in general.

Audio: Maximum audio entry length is 5 minutes, if applicable. You must state each clip in the Running Order. Podcast content can be used for this category but must not represent more than 25% of the total entry.

Written: A maximum of 500 words from the entrant and 500 words from your station manager (or similar). These should be uploaded in the corresponding text fields.

Images: A maximum of 5 images can be uploaded in support of this entry.

Best News and Journalistic Programming

This category is designed to recognise programmes that form part of the station’s news or current affairs output. One-off special features or programmes will be considered as well as regular programmes and services; this includes documentaries and investigations, as well as news-based talk shows. Special consideration will be given to programmes that are targeted at the student audience and engage this audience. This category is for programmes that are ‘aimed to inform’. The judges will be looking for well-prepared and well-presented quality content that is delivered professionally.

Audio: A compilation of the programme(s). Maximum audio entry length is 5 minutes. You must state each clip in the Running Order. Please note that podcast content is not eligible for entry in this category.

Written: A maximum of 500 words about how the programme was presented and produced, with a particular emphasis on how stories and information were gathered, developed, and compiled into an informative broadcast.

Images: A maximum of 5 images can be uploaded in support of this entry.

Best Podcast Programming

This category is designed to recognise podcasts that form part of a station’s output, either on-air or via supplementary channels. These may have been broadcast on the station or may have been uploaded to external systems such as Soundcloud or Audioboom on an account belonging to your station. Whilst any podcast is eligible for this award, the entry should showcase a passion for the topic of choice, as well as demonstrating technical proficiency in its creation. The judges will also be looking for a relevance to the student audience, alongside creativity and strong presentation.

The podcast must be originally created to be in this format (i.e., cannot be a show highlights podcast) and must have originally been made available via your student station. Work created towards any degree requirements is not eligible.

Audio: A compilation of highlights from the podcast(s). Maximum audio entry is 5 minutes. You must state each clip in the Running Order.

Written: A maximum of 500 words about the podcast and its creation, with a particular focus on why the topic chosen is of interest, the technical elements of the podcast and any challenges faced, and the impact of the podcast.

Best Presenter

This category is for a DJ or presenter of a student radio programme that combines speech with music. The judges will be looking for someone who intersperses the station playlist with moments of entertainment and knowledge of their subject, without necessarily focussing directly on music. Recognition will be given for their overall presentation style, skills, and demonstrating understanding of their audience. You should showcase a depth of outstanding content, including features, whilst also illustrating a flair for creativity.

Audio: A compilation of your best on-air output. Maximum audio entry length is 5 minutes. You must state each clip in the Running Order under. Podcast content can be used for this category but must not represent more than 25% of the total entry.

Written: A maximum of 500 Words about you and your show.

Best Producer

This category is designed to recognise an exceptional and passionate producer working in student radio. Judges will be looking for an understanding and appreciation of the target audience alongside talent management, creative ideas, and excellent production values.

Audio: An audio compilation outlining the shows/content they’ve produced. Maximum audio entry length is 5 minutes. You must state each clip in the Running Order.

Written: A maximum of 500 words about their production skills, creative ideas, talent management, hurdles they’ve overcome as a producer, and aspirations for student radio.

Images: A maximum of 5 images can be uploaded in support of this entry.

Best Specialist Music Programming

This category is for a DJ or presenter of a specialist music radio programme who deserves particular recognition for their overall presentation style and skills, as well as high-quality on-air content. The judges will be looking for someone who is passionate about the music they play, demonstrating in-depth knowledge of the genre and a devotion to introducing specialist music to their audience.

Audio: A compilation of the programme(s). Maximum audio entry length is 5 minutes. You must state each clip in the Running Order. Please note that podcast content is not eligible for entry in this category.

Written: A maximum of 500 words about how the programme was presented and produced, with a particular emphasis on how specialist music has been sourced and programmed.

Best Sport Programming

This category is designed to recognise programmes that form part of a station’s sport output. One-off specials, such as Varsity or live match reporting, will be considered as well as regular sport or panel shows. Documentaries about sporting events are also valid for this category. The entry must display a knowledge and passion for sport at the level it is covered. You should demonstrate the preparation involved for the coverage, as well as showcasing a high level of quality in both production values and presentation.

Audio: A compilation of the programme(s). Maximum audio entry length is 5 minutes. You must state each clip in the Running Order. Please note that podcast content is not eligible for entry in this category.

Written: A maximum of 500 words about how the programme was presented and produced, with a particular emphasis on the structure of the show, as well as the planning and research process.

Best Station Branding

This category recognises stations with an increased awareness of off-air branding. Entrants should understand the relationship between on- and off-air station imaging, and how the station communicates its image to a student audience in order to attract and retain listeners. The quality and strength of off-air material such as promotions, campaigns, and branding/design will be considered. Street-teams, publicity around events and outside broadcasts, and any other off-air marketing efforts are eligible for this category. The judges will be looking for strong branding campaigns that creatively support the station’s on-air content in a variety of ways, whilst engaging with and remaining appropriate to the station’s student audience.

Audio: No audio submission is required.

Written: A maximum of 1000 words about how the marketing/branding of your station was developed and how it raised awareness of the station to your listeners.

Images: A maximum of 10 images can be uploaded in support of this entry.

Links: A maximum of 5 multimedia links can be uploaded in support of this entry. This cannot include any links to audio.

Best Station Sound

This category places a particular emphasis on the quality and technicality of imaging and station sound. There should be an understanding of how the on- and off-air presentation of the station complement each other for their marketing. Station Sound includes all elements of station-led production, such as jingles and idents, bespoke beds, adverts, and production made for particular events.. The judges will be looking for a cohesive yet varied collection of on-air materials that helps a listener recognise the identity of the station, that are creative and well produced, as well as being appropriate for the medium.

Audio: A compilation capturing how the station’s brand/image is represented on-air. Maximum audio entry length is 5 minutes.

Written: A maximum of 500 words about how the sound of your station was developed and how your imaging was implemented across your schedule.

Best Student Radio Station

This category is for the station that has made the biggest impact with its audience in the last year.  You should demonstrate your station’s aims, objectives, and programming policies, as well as detailing any hurdles that had to be overcome in working towards these. This entry should showcase the highlights and achievements for the station over the previous academic year. You should look to showcase the quality and variety of the station’s output, as well as detailing how you have engaged with your audience and ensured what you produce is appropriate for them. Teamwork is also a key component to this category, along with the general organisation of the station.

Audio: A compilation of the best of your station’s output. It should include output from across the schedule. Maximum audio entry length is 15 minutes. You must state each clip in the Running Order. Podcast content can be used for this category but must not represent more than 25% of the total entry.

Written: A maximum of 2000 words detailing how the station is organised and operated, as well as highlighting particular successes of the station during the previous academic year.

Images: A maximum of 10 images can be uploaded in support of this entry.

Links: A maximum of 5 multimedia links can be uploaded in support of this entry. This cannot include any links to audio.

There is also an additional multimedia link available if the audio file is too large to upload to the system. To use this, please upload your audio file online and provide the link for this file, ensuring that the platform used is freely accessible and does not require anyone to log in or request access to view it. Any file uploaded to such a platform must remain accessible until 1 January. Note that this additional multimedia link can only be used for this purpose and uploading anything other than that in this section will result in your entry being rejected.

Best Technical Achievement

This category celebrates a technical development that has improved your student radio station. You have identified a need and designed/developed a practical, successful engineering or IT-based solution to fulfil this need. You should show the judges the usability of your product and how the project was managed.  This category is designed to showcase innovative and creative ways in which you have used technology to improve the station and overcome challenges.

Audio: Maximum audio entry length is 5 minutes, if applicable. You must state each clip in the Running Order.

Written: A maximum of 1000 words about how and why the innovation was designed and developed, how the work was carried out, and how it impacted the way the station operates.

Images: A maximum of 10 images, including diagrams, can be uploaded in support of this entry.

The Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion Award

An award for an individual, team, show, or station initiating and leading actions to remove barriers, improving the student radio experience and engagement levels of others, and creating an environment where individuals feel a sense of belonging. Entries should detail how the nominee has sought to improve and empower the voices of groups and individuals so they can be their authentic selves and feel that they have a voice on their station. Bold actions which have a lasting legacy are important in this category, making a positive inclusion of values and representing an intersectional approach. The judges will be looking for entries which show an intent to create real, sustained change, which improve the experience for all members of the station.

Audio: Maximum audio entry length is 5 minutes, if applicable. You must state each clip in the Running Order. Please note that podcast content is not eligible for entry in this category.

Written: A maximum of 500 words describing what you/your team or station has done to promote Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion within your station.

Images: A maximum of 5 images can be uploaded in support of this entry.

If you have any questions about The Student Radio Awards 2024, please email our judging coordinators at Awards@studentradio.org.uk