Kerry College graduate Katelyn Galvin one of Ten journalism graduates to land paid placements in local radio stations around the country

Kerry College are delighted to announce that Digital Journalism, Podcasting & Radio graduate Katelyn Galvin has secured a paid placement with Radio Kerry.

Now in its fourth year, the Learning Waves Journalism Graduate Programme, which is designed and supported by the independent commercial radio sector along with Coimisiún na Meán and Skillnet Ireland, gives 10 lucky students a unique opportunity to complete a five-month paid placement in a radio station.

The programme, recently won Best Graduate Development Initiative at the Excellence in Learning Awards. Speaking at the launch of this year’s programme in Galway Learning Waves Project Manager Teresa Hanratty said ‘Current events happening across the globe have again proven how the role of the journalist has never been more important in disseminating reliable and trustworthy information. Eight of the 10 graduates who took part in the programme last year are now working full time in the sector, so we know the programme not only provides a pathway for new journalists to enter the sector but also a consistent pipeline of much needed new talent to future proof radio journalism’. 

Commenting on the launch of this year’s programme Coimisiún na Meán’s Media Development Commissioner, Rónán Ó’Domhnaill said ‘As the media landscape continues to evolve it has become increasingly important to equip the next generation of journalists with the expertise needed to report on events accurately and ethically. Radio continues to be an essential source of trusted information and engaging content for people of all ages right around the country. The Journalism Graduate Programme ensures we continue to attract new graduates to the medium by providing an opportunity to gain invaluable hands-on training, experience, and insight into the role of journalists in society. We are delighted to support this scheme once again and I would like to congratulate the successful graduates and stations and to wish them the best of luck’. 

The participating broadcasters and graduates were chosen following an application process that began in March 2023. A total of 15 broadcaster applications and 45 student applications were received. The student applications were shortlisted and interviewed by a panel of representatives from Learning Waves and the industry. The successful graduates took up their placements in September and will showcase their work in February 2024.

Applications for the Digital Journalism, Podcasting & Radio course are now open. Visit Digital Journalism, Podcasting & Radio Full-time Course – Kerry College to apply or learn more about the programme.