Students from Workington Academy Radio are celebrating national recognition after an excellent day in London at the Shine School Media Awards 2026.
Charlie, Noah and Olly travelled to the awards ceremony after being shortlisted for their podcast, Behind the Algorithm, a student-led investigation into social media, mental health and the debate around whether young people should have access to social media platforms in the way they currently do.
The students were delighted to come away with a Highly Commended award for their entry, after being nominated alongside schools from across the country.
Behind the Algorithm has been a major piece of work for the students over the past year. As part of the project, they researched key issues, planned episodes, developed questions, interviewed guests, recorded discussions, edited audio and shaped the final podcast series.
Through the podcast, the students explored some challenging and important questions around the impact of social media on young people. They listened carefully to different views, considered the evidence, and used their growing media skills to produce a thoughtful and mature investigation.
Their work has helped them develop not only as podcasters, but as young journalists and media producers. They have built confidence, strengthened their communication skills and shown real curiosity, creativity and commitment throughout the process.
Workington Academy Radio has continued to grow over recent years, giving students the opportunity to produce radio shows, podcasts, interviews and media content linked to issues that matter to them and their wider community.
The Shine School Media Awards recognise and celebrate the very best in school journalism, media and student voice. For Charlie, Noah and Olly to have their work recognised on a national stage is a fantastic achievement and a proud moment for everyone involved.
The day was made even more special when Mr Williamson was named winner of the national Most Inspirational Teacher award. Nominated by students, the award recognised his work in developing Workington Academy Radio and supporting young people to build confidence, creativity and ambition through media.
Mr Williamson said the recognition meant a great deal, particularly because the nomination came from students. However, he was keen to stress that the day belonged to Charlie, Noah and Olly, and to the hard work they have put into the podcast and Workington Academy Radio throughout the year.
He said:
“I am incredibly proud of Charlie, Noah and Olly. This podcast has been a huge piece of work and they have put so much thought, effort and creativity into it. They have asked difficult questions, listened to different views and produced something really mature and meaningful.
Seeing their work recognised on a national stage was a really proud teacher moment. Workington Academy Radio only works because of the students who put their time, energy and ideas into it. The boys absolutely smashed it.”
Workington Academy would like to thank the Shine School Media Awards for hosting such a brilliant event and for giving young people a platform to have their work celebrated.
Everyone at Workington Academy is incredibly proud of Charlie, Noah, Olly and Mr Williamson.
Well done to all involved.
You can listen to Behind the Algorithm on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music and through the Workington Academy website: https://www.workingtonacademy.org/category/wa_radio/behind-the-algorithm/
