Walliscote's young journalists take centre stage on BBC Radio Bristol
By Jill Dando News, Good News Room at Walliscote Primary sponsored by The Grand Pier
Two young journalists from Walliscote Primary School have enjoyed a memorable broadcasting experience after appearing live on BBC Radio Bristol's Breakfast Show.
The pupils were invited into the studio by presenter Joe Sims, where they were joined by headteacher Shelley Flanagan and Good Newsroom lead Joe Almond to talk about their love of positive storytelling and the importance of sharing uplifting news.
The visit coincided with what would have been the 65th birthday of renowned broadcaster Jill Dando, whose legacy continues to inspire the school's Good Newsroom.
Sponsored by The Grand Pier in Weston-super-Mare, Walliscote's Good Newsroom gives pupils the opportunity to develop journalism and communication skills while discovering the power of positive news.
Run in partnership with The Good News Post, the project encourages children to research stories, check facts, interview people and report responsibly.
Inspired by Jill's belief in 'journalism with a smile', young reporters are encouraged to find stories that celebrate the people and events making a difference in their community.
Jill Dando, who was born in Weston-super-Mare, remains an inspiration through her kindness, professionalism and commitment to journalism.
Headteacher Shelley Flanagan said:
"What an incredible experience for two of our young journalists, who were selected to visit the BBC studio in Bristol for a live interview on BBC Radio Bristol's Breakfast Show. Our amazing journalists displayed wonderful enthusiasm for sharing positive news stories throughout both our school and local community, inspired by the legacy of renowned journalist Jill Dando.
We are incredibly grateful to breakfast show host Joe Sims and the team at BBC Radio Bristol for inviting us onto the programme. Thank you also to all our wonderful Walliscote families who tuned in to listen."
The experience gave the pupils a chance to showcase their developing journalism skills to a much wider audience and demonstrate that positive stories deserve a place in the headlines.
The Good Newsroom is part of a growing initiative bringing journalism into schools and inspiring the next generation of reporters.