Students GO FM in Titirangi

Students airing their radio skills

A talented group of budding young DJs are living their dream by hosting a radio station.

GO FM, which features on 107.1FM from 3pm to 5pm every day, was started by Daniel and Matthew Tate and has a 10km radius from its studio at Lopdell House in Titirangi.

Kelston Boys High School students George Gavet, 16, Thomas Stevens, 16, and Filisi Lafaele, 17, host the station every Friday with Dwayne Cunningham, 16, filling in when needed.

They aspire to be radio announcers or music producers when they finish school.

All got the role through Gateway – an organisation that aims to get students work place experience.

Coordinator Jackie Brayshaw organised the placement and says the boys are doing well.

“They are very good. It is a real community service.”

George says they play rock, hip hop, pop and Kiwi music aimed at teenage listeners.

“It’s great that we can play our own music and are able to express ourselves on issues we care about,” he says.

The year 11 students were interviewed and assessed according to their motivation, attendance records and personalities before being given the opportunity to present.

They attended NZ Radio School on Queen St every six weeks to learn about broadcasting and will get 20 credits in unit standards to put towards their NCEA qualifications.

Students from Kelston Girls, Liston, Massey High, Rutherford, Waitakere College, Mt Albert Grammar, Auckland Grammar and St Dominic’s are also given a chance to host a show through the week.

Mrs Brayshaw says some former pupils who have been through the programme are now working on radio stations.

“The really keen and dedicated students are now on air,” she says.

Renee Girven is an AUT student

Western Leader