Portlaoise College’s transition year students 2018-19 were the first in the school to try out the new TY Radio. Under the name of C.P.L.R (Coláiste Portlaoise Local Radio), it plays during different days and times of the week, keeping the student population informed with news, music and updates from the school, it piloted for the first time on Friday March 8th. The station was launched during this year’s Positive Mental Health Week, it played a different song every day, all with a positive message and the presenters also played a huge role in the school’s Seachtaine na Gaeilge week.

The students got some help and training from presenter Eric Moore from RTE who also operates ‘School of Jock’ which assist schools all over the country in setting up their own radio stations. Assisted also by music teacher Mr. James Harvey the students have been really busy and putting their presenting skills to the test. Mr. Harvey said ‘This is a great opportunity to raise the student voice in the school, building confidence and public speaking skills and who knows this might be the start of a career in the broadcasting industry’

The students themselves have really enjoyed the experience so far and are keen to maximise the potential of this great medium.