Radio Shows & Podcasts
What's the difference?
A radio show is a live programme, presented weekly. Most radio shows are a mix of music & chat, but yours may be a talk-only show. You will have access to our state-of-the-art radio studio, with brand new automation software, playout tools, and all the tips & tricks you need. You will be allocated a regular, one-hour time slot, published on our schedule page at the start of every semester.
Although radio shows are typically live, you have the option of doing a real-time pre-record, or voicetrack your show if you wish.
A podcast is not a live programme, nor do they contain songs or music. They are primarily talk-heavy, with each episode typically running up to an hour long - but, as it is recorded, you have the discretion to make your episodes as short or as long as you wish. You will be allocated 60 minutes of recording time every week, and most podcast episodes at KCL Radio are between 15-45 minutes long. Another benefit - you can also edit your audio before it is published - so no excuses for not sounding slick!
It's easy for individuals to apply for a radio show or a podcast at KCL Radio.
1. Fill in the application form here.
2. Purchase your KCL Radio membership.
3. Get trained! Attend your induction.
4. Read the handbook and FAQs.
5. Present your first programme!
Applying after the semester deadline? A surcharge (for enrolment & administration) may apply. Contact the Controller for details.
These instructions are for individual student(s) only. Every regular host involved in the radio show or podcast ("regular host" being defined as someone who appears in two or more episodes) will need to purchase their own membership.
If you wish to apply on behalf of a KCLSU-ratified society, this does not apply. Please see below for more information.
Society Podcasts
Are you part of a KCLSU-ratified society, and want to boost your group's portfolio by starting a podcast?
KCL Radio can help you!
We are now renting out our Podcast Studios to Student Activity Groups in these guises:
1. One-off bookings: book a one-hour slot in a podcast suite - this is not a permanent membership.
2. A weekly one-hour slot in a podcast suite, to be used by any paying member of your society.
For the avoidance of doubt, Option 2 differs from the above Standard Membership because only one membership purchase is required per society, no matter how many members wish to use the suite. To get a quote, email the Controller, but generally speaking,
if a podcast has less than three hosts, it becomes more cost-effective for you to apply as an individual, not as a society.
Subteam 1: Production Team
Producers are the brains behind some of the best radio shows and podcasts you know and love.
This is the role for you if you want to get involved with making programmes, without necessarily presenting them.
The job description varies depending on the programme, but from helping to plan shows, pick music, booking and co-ordinating guests, to driving the desk in the studio, there's always an opportunity to try something new.
Subteam 2: Music Team
Music! Essential for any radio show...
The Music Subteam was established in 2023 for members who wanted to get involved with the society, but weren’t ready to start their own show.
Under the guidance of the then Head of Music, Rhea Rambocus, twenty members got the opportunity to have a hands-on role in the music programming at the station, by helping with all things music – curating playlists, designing and producing emergency tapes, etc.
The Music Team keep our playlists fresh and filled with songs that students are listening to. ​You could help break new artists, or have your favourite singer-songwriter visit King’s by hosting live music sessions in our studio.
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Applications will reopen periodically – keep checking below if interested!
Subteam 3: Interview Team
The Interview Subteam was established in 2023 as a response to several emails to the Controller from students who wanted to gain valuable interview experience and get involved with the society by chatting to guests, but didn't have a programme of their own.
Last year, twenty members got priority access to interview opportunities with big name guests (we interviewed Eurovision stars, Olympic athletes, and even Greta Thunberg of all people!) We went along to the ITV New Year’s Eve Show – for free! We also had three days of tours of two BBC Radio & TV buildings in Marylebone, and covered London Varsity (see image)
The best part? There are no minimum required hours. There’s no level of expected commitment. You can just log in when you see something you fancy doing. This is a completely flexible role! Applications will reopen periodically – keep checking below if interested!
Subteam 4: Journalism Team
Would you like to go to festivals and review gigs and new music for the KCL Radio website?
The Journalism Subteam was established this year as an extension of our core activities. Write about the latest releases, produce an album review, or even talk about a great concert you went to see. If you've got a good ear for any genre, we want to hear from you!
Applications are currently open, but hurry – they close at midday on Sunday 13th October 2024.
To receive the application assessment, email our Head of Journalism via the link below:
Your annual membership
Pricing
We want to be upfront that we ask active members to make an annual contribution towards the running costs of the station.
We do this because we don't receive set direct funding from the university for our activities (and because of our charity status) nor are we permitted to raise anything by commercial means.
Student Media Group fees are set by the Students' Union, and as of Sept 2024, are priced at £20. Fees have not risen since 2013.
Please note that any late applications post-deadline may be subject to a £5 surcharge for enrolment and administration.