The idea of putting young people on the airwaves started with a rap. When Martin Wilson and Belvidere Primary Schools took to the stage at Loopfest in May for the final of INTune Radio’s Rap Factor competition, the crowd was treated to passionate performances centred on the theme of “Being kind”.
What followed that day was more than a prize for creativity – it was the launch of something bigger.
The School Radio Club, a new initiative from INTune Radio, was announced live at Loopfest 2025. Both schools became the first to receive podcast desks, microphones and teacher training to help students record and edit their own school-based radio content.
It marked the beginning of a journey made possible thanks to the success of INTune Radio’s community crowdfunding campaign via Spacehive, which raised over £8,000 with backing from local people, businesses and councils across Shropshire.
The public response to the project has continued to grow. Most recently, at the 150th Shropshire County Show, hundreds of families and guests, including Shrewsbury MP Dr Julia Buckley, heard more about the School Radio Club and its impact.
Dr Buckley, who had previously visited INTune Radio’s studio in Shrewsbury, expressed her full support and praised the project as “a fantastic opportunity for children to gain confidence and share their voices on issues that matter to them”.
Alongside Martin Wilson and Belvidere, the programme now includes Wilfred Owen Primary and Derwen College in Gobowen – meaning over 800 pupils are already part of the project.
Wayne Flynn, founder of INTune Radio, said: “From the excitement of Loopfest to the warmth we received at the County Show, this project is all about connection. Thanks to the generosity of our backers and the enthusiasm of schools and families, the School Radio Club is fast becoming something very special for Shropshire.”
The programme continues to grow, with plans to get the project into 10 primary and secondary schools across Shropshire, and a £20,000 community lottery grant bid underway. Schools interested in joining the initiative are encouraged to register, while local businesses are invited to sponsor equipment and training with a one-off contribution of £500.
Joining INTune Radio founder Wayne Flynn (Centre) are INTune Radio volunteers Chloe Hatfield (far left) and Joe Tomlins (far right); either side of Wayne are teachers Ellen Duncan (on the left) from Belvidere Primary School, and on the right is Lauren Thorn from Martin Wilson Primary School.
Picture: Julie Richards Portraits.
