For the third consecutive year, students from a range of vocational pathways available at the academy in Birmingham’s Eastside will have a hands-on role to deliver one of the Midlands largest annual music events. From performing on dedicated stages throughout the event, to providing technical and event support behind the scenes, students have been working closely with the Free Radio team to prepare for this year’s event.

Talented dancers from the academy are set to open the concert on the main stage with an energetic routine, whilst the outdoor stage, dance stage and Forum Live stage will feature students from a variety of pathways in school years 10-13. Having successfully auditioned for the event, the unique opportunity will see talented singers and dancers perform to an audience of up to 15,000 people.

Behind the scenes, BOA students have completed two-week placements in October with the Free Radio team, working on marketing, event management, radio production and social media ahead of the event. Selected students from the Broadcast Pathway will also be on hand to capture the event, with their completed film featured on the Free Radio website and social media channels.

Gaynor Cheshire, principal at BOA, said: “We’re proud to offer our students a range of unique opportunities to work alongside some of the industry’s leading professionals, enabling them to gain valuable insight and hands-on experience alongside their academic studies.

“Free Radio Live always attracts some of the biggest names in the music industry, so it’s a fantastic opportunity for our students to not only showcase their own talents by performing on stage, but also behind the scenes.”