Volunteers from the charity visited a year 10 Media Studies class to give students an insight into how the Talking Newspaper is produced each week. The charity aims to support people who are visually impaired to access news and information in their community.

Sixth Form student Tom is currently completing a work experience placement at the charity’s recording sessions, helping to support the production of weekly editions for listeners across the local community.

Students will now work on creating their own magazine-style edition from the perspective of a younger generation.

Broadcaster Jeremy Vine, Patron of the charity, has agreed to record an introduction for the student-produced audio magazine, which is expected to be shared with listeners later this year.

Sidmouth College, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, places a strong emphasis on providing students with real-world learning opportunities through partnerships with local organisations, helping them develop practical skills, confidence and experience beyond the classroom.

Heather Penwarden, volunteer reader and publicist for East Devon Talking Newspaper, said:

“As part of our community engagement work, we reached out to Sidmouth College with an offer for students to gain hands on experience in producing a Talking Newspaper and the response has been fantastic. Sixth form student Tom is now on placement at our recording sessions where he is actively involved and gaining firsthand experience of how the weekly edition is created.

“Our Chairman and Editor Peter Eagles, Producer Tony Charnock and myself were also delighted to visit a Year 10 Media Studies class where students were fully engaged from the moment we arrived. They asked brilliant questions and were fascinated to see how everything comes together from recording through to broadcast.”

Mr Alex Evans, Headteacher at Sidmouth College, said:

“This was a fantastic opportunity for our students to learn about the important role community media can play in connecting people and reducing isolation. Heather, Tony and Peter gave a brilliant insight into the work of the East Devon Talking Newspaper, and our students thoroughly enjoyed taking part in the recording activities. They are now looking forward to developing their own ideas through the project.”

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust, said:

“At the Ted Wragg Trust, we are passionate about helping young people understand the positive difference they can make within their communities. This is a wonderful opportunity for students to develop new skills while learning about an organisation that provides such valuable support for visually impaired residents across East Devon.”