Ark Putney Academy Student Reporting
The Many Ways to Tell a Story
During Media Club, our Year 8 students explored the many ways they can tell a story. They learned about all the different roles within a newsroom, what makes something “news,” and how to find stories. We also explored press releases showcasing the amazing events happening across Wandsworth during this cultural celebration.
The students developed their interview skills and discovered what makes a great reporter. They then had the exciting opportunity to interview one of the stars of Wandsworth Way, Jeanne Rathbone. (There is a separate report and interview to read and listen to)
As part of this session, they were also introduced to Jack, a live scribe, a modern, exciting and visual way to tell a story. With the students’ help, Jack created an incredible piece of art during the press conference-style interview with Jeanne.
In our final session, the students set up their own newsroom and produced a “live” report covering the Ark Music Gala. They welcomed guests who had attended the event and shared the story in their own words.
The Wandsworth Way Hits The Airwaves
Written by Tallulah, Laiba, Abdul & Mana
Sub-Editor; Emma Peries, former ITV GMB Reporter
An inspiring new radio drama, The Wandsworth Way, is being broadcast on Riverside Radio as part of the celebrations of Wandsworth being named London Borough of Culture 2025.
In the first episode we were introduced to Tasha and Mike: Tasha, a world-famous author, returns to Wandsworth after years hoping to write her first novel. Following a near fatal car crash she recruits Mike, a local cab driver - who she’d already bumped into at a bar.
Visiting the old estate where she was raised, she is hit with nostalgia. Tasha then decides not to finish her book but rather to write about Wandsworth, the borough that is responsible for shaping who she is.
The Year 8 Media Club at Ark Academy Putney were lucky enough to meet Jeanne Rathbone, a community campaigner, who plays Mike’s mum.
She visited us and was greeted by our journalism team, where we set up our press conference and started our interview.
We were keen to get her thoughts on Wandsworth being the Borough of Culture by asking her some questions. Jeanne talked about many interesting thoughts, information about the radio drama and hopes it inspires others,
“I think that it's a very unique thing and you would hope anything that somebody else might pick up on it."
Photos taken by Oliva and Nihal
Students Report on Strictly Wandsworth
Two students from Ark Putney Academy came along to Strictly Wandsworth, the first major event for London Borough of Culture, to report on the action, capture behind-the-scenes footage and put their interviewing skills into practice!