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Passion for radio leads to Passport prize

16 September 2013

 

Interviewing chart stars Jake Bugg and Bastille and waving at TV presenter Vernon Kay are just some of the extra-curricular activities which helped an ambitious college student to receive prestigious recognition from Teesside University.

Aspiring radio presenter and producer Andrew Backhouse, 18, has been recognised in the University’s annual Passport Pride Awards for the dedication he has shown throughout his studies.

Passport encourages students’ progression from further education to higher education and the awards are designed to showcase the achievements of those involved in the scheme.

Andrew is studying A-Levels in English Language, English Literature and Media at Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College in Darlington.

He will be presented with the media subject award (participation and extra-curricular activities) during the Passport Pride Awards, which are held at Teesside University on Thursday 19 September.

Andrew has ambitions to work in radio and has dedicated his time to learning everything he can about the profession and boosting his portfolio of work.

He launched the College’s own radio station, QE Radio, and has since secured interviews with a range of high profile music acts including Jake Bugg, Bastille and Icona Pop.

As well as college radio, Andrew has presented his own shows on Garrison FM and Mearns FM and produced a podcast for the Reading and Leeds festival.

'I really enjoy radio – both presenting and producing – and it is definitely something I would like to do as a career,' explained Andrew, who lives in Catterick Village.

'You get to put your personality across and I think it is much more intimate than television.'

Andrew also secured a prestigious work experience opportunity at BBC Radio 1 where he was able to gain further insight into how shows are produced.

'It was a really exciting opportunity. I didn’t get to meet any famous people unfortunately, though I did wave at Vernon Kay,' laughed Andrew, who certainly possesses the humour and charisma to succeed in broadcasting.

Reflecting on his Passport award Andrew added: 'I am really chuffed – I have never won anything before. The ceremony is going to be really exciting and it is great to win an award for something I am so passionate about.

'Passport is a really positive scheme and it has definitely made me more determined to go onto university.'

Michael Lavery, Director of External Relations at Teesside University, added: 'Passport is all about supporting progression into higher education and to hear about the success of students such as Andrew is incredible. He, like others on the scheme, has shown a dedication and commitment to succeed which will carry him well into the future.'

Liz Bryan, Higher Education Co-ordinator at Queen Elizabeth, said: 'Andrew is a worthy winner. He is extremely motivated and focused and is an ideal candidate for higher education and indeed a career in radio.'


 
 
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