Vectis Radio 4PS Radio Training School Wins BBC Radio Solent Make A Difference Community
Group Award.
Vectis Radio is celebrating a major achievement after its 4PS Radio Training School was named the winner of the Community Group Award at the BBC Radio Solent Make A Difference Awards. The prestigious awards ceremony took place at the Utilita Bowl in Southampton on Tuesday and was hosted by BBC Radio Solent’s Katie Martin and Rick Jackson.
The awards recognise individuals, groups and organisations across the region who are making a positive difference to the lives of others within their communities.
The 4PS Radio Training School, based at Vectis Radio in Newport on the Isle of Wight, was recognised for its work using radio broadcasting to develop young people’s communication skills, confidence and self-esteem.
Thirteen years of the four Ps
For more than 13 years, the 4PS project has provided young people with opportunities to learn about radio Presenting, Production, Podcasting and Promotion (the ‘4 PS’) along with interviewing and broadcasting skills, while creating a supportive environment where they can develop their confidence and overcome barriers.
The BBC Radio Solent judges praised the project, saying that 4PS does not just teach skills, but sparks confidence, builds trust and creates moments that families will never forget.
They also highlighted the energy and creativity of the project, saying it brings joy and hope and makes a genuine difference to people’s lives.
‘They’re the real winners’
Ian Mac from Vectis Radio said he was deeply honoured and extremely proud of everyone involved,
“It’s all about the youngsters. They’re the ones that are achieving every day.”
He continued,
“We just put the project together 13 years ago and they are following it to the letter. They’re the real winners here.”
The award is a significant recognition of the young people who have taken part in 4PS over the years, as well as the dedicated team, volunteers, supporters and organisations who have helped make the project possible.
Leisha Lang, one of the 4PS students, said she was thrilled to see the project recognised.
“Massive congratulations Vectis Radio and super exciting. I appeared on the VT.
“I’m so lucky and grateful to be a part of an incredible project and to be part of the most wonderful radio team on the Isle of Wight.”
The BBC Radio Solent Make A Difference Awards feature eight categories celebrating people and organisations who work to make life better for others across the region.
Make A Difference has become a major BBC community initiative, with millions of people taking part through BBC radio stations across the country.
A record of recognition
The success of 4PS follows a long history of recognition for Vectis Radio’s community work. The station has previously received The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service and was named Community Radio Station of the Year at the ARIAS.
The latest award further highlights the impact of the 4PS Radio Training School and the young people at its heart.
‘An honour to be in the same room’
Vectis Radio 4Ps Trustee Kelvin Currie, added,
“It was an honour to be in the same room with so many deserving people and causes.
“Every one of them was a worthy winner and had been selected from a huge number of nominations.
“For the 4Ps to be awarded overall winner in our category was truly amazing.”
He added,
“As a team, we’d like to thank our sponsors for the courses this year, The Isle of Wight Council and The Sovereign Network Group, and for our travel, the continued support of Red Funnel Ferries. The courses would not happen without this support.”
4Ps Patron, Graham Biss, BEM DL added,
“It was great to see Vectis Radio’s 4PS project and, the Island, recognised at the BBC Radio Solent’s Make a Difference Awards.
“Winning the community group award against such stiff competition is a real achievement and something to celebrate.
“Congratulations to Ian and the Vectis Radio team. We are proud of you.”
News shared by Kelvin on behalf of Vectis Radio. Ed
