THE STUDENT RADIO AWARDS 2026
The Student Radio Awards 2026 are back and entries are now OPEN!
You’ll have until 8:00pm on the 3rd of July to get your entries in.

Each entry is charged at £5

You must be a member of a 2025/2026 Student Radio Association member station or hold individual SRA membership to enter.

The ceremony will be held on 24th November 2026 at indigo at The O2 in London.

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We will be using the same awards system as last year – and entries shall be
submitted through the Student Radio Awards platform. Entries do not need to all be
submitted at one time as these can be saved and updated at any time.

CATEGORIES

Best Chart Show Programming

This is a special award presented by the Student Radio Association to honour the
station deemed to have best hosted the Student Radio Chart Show. The award will
primarily be judged on the presentation skills and production values demonstrated by
the stations when they hosted the show, although the winning station must also have
shown professionalism and consistency in being a part of the syndication. Creativity
is also an important factor in this category, whilst maintaining a strong focus on the audience.

*Only stations who have hosted the Student Radio Chart Show and syndicated at
least 25% of other station’s chart shows can enter this category.

Audio: A 5-minute audio ‘best of’ for your show hosting the Student Radio Chart
Show. You must state each clip in the Running Order. Please note that podcast content is not eligible for entry in this category.

Written: A maximum of 500 words about how the programme was presented and
produced, with a particular emphasis on how ideas were created, developed, and

incorporated into the overall programme.

Images: A maximum of 5 images can be uploaded in support of this entry.

Best Creative Speech Programming

This category recognises the creation of speech programming that is aimed to
entertain. This can include comedy or scripted dramas, panel shows and
programmes designed to make listeners laugh, as well as shows containing fictional
content or readings. Talk shows are also valid for this category, provided they are not
based on current affairs or presented in a news format, as are entertainment-based
documentaries. Regardless of genre, the programming should be delivered with a
professional level of presentation, including high production values, with a good
depth of quality, creative content that engages with a student audience.

Audio: A compilation of the programme(s). Maximum audio entry length is 5 minutes.
You must state each clip in the Running Order. Please note that podcast content is

not eligible for entry in this category.

Written: A maximum of 500 words about how the programme was presented and
produced, with a particular emphasis on the preparation and scripting process.

Best Entertainment Programming

This category recognises programming that forms part of the station’s entertainment
output with a particular emphasis on the items and links within, acknowledging those
responsible for devising, writing, and producing them. An example of the genre
would be a breakfast programme. The judges will be looking for a well-presented,
engaging, and entertaining programme that delivers a professional product to its

audience and that has strong on-air content and features.

Audio: A compilation of the programme(s). Maximum audio entry length is 5 minutes.
You must state each clip in the Running Order. Please note that podcast content is

not eligible for entry in this category.

Written: A maximum of 500 words about how the programme was presented and
produced, with a particular emphasis on how ideas were created, developed, and

incorporated into the overall programme.

Best Event Programming

This category is for programmes that were produced outside of the station’s studios,
but does not include sports coverage. Judges will be examining the way in which
entries captured the essence of the event and how the OB connected with both the
audience at the event and the audience listening to the programme. Your entry
should clearly detail how challenges were overcome in producing the broadcast. You
can also use your written entry to tell the judges how you used technology to bring

this broadcast to air, as well as how you promoted the event.

Audio: A compilation of the programme(s). Maximum audio entry length is 5 minutes.
You must state each clip in the Running Order. Please note that podcast content is

not eligible for entry in this category.

Written: A maximum of 1000 words about how the event/OB was planned,
coordinated, and executed, with a particular emphasis on where, why, and how this

coverage was achieved.

Images: A maximum of 10 images can be uploaded in support of this entry.

Best Interview

This category recognises one outstanding interview. Examples of Interviewees could
be MPs, celebrities, bands, or university/students’ union staff. You should aim to give
an overview of the interview, demonstrating the depth and quality of the content
alongside the style and delivery of the interview, as well as the connection you
developed with the interviewee. The judges will be looking to see that the interview
was well prepared in advance and to get an understanding of your skills as an
interviewer. Above all, this is about a strong interview that delivers a punch.

Audio: A single interview including the voice of the interviewer. Maximum audio entry
length is 5 minutes. You must state each clip in the Running Order. Please note that

podcast content is not eligible for entry in this category.

Written: A maximum of 500 words about how the interview was executed, with a
particular emphasis on how it was arranged, researched, presented, and produced.

Best Multiplatform Initiative

This category recognises shows that have extended their reach by utilising
multiplatform channels – such as social media or video content – to engage with
existing listeners and attract new ones. You should look to demonstrate an effective
use of whichever platforms you have used, as well as showcasing your creativity in
the content produced. The judges will want to see how you have engaged with the
student audience in a manner that is appropriate for that audience, whilst also
remaining relevant to your on-air activity. Overall, this should be a strong campaign

through different channels.

Audio: No audio submission is required.

Written: A maximum of 1000 words about the multi-platform channels you used, how
you integrated these with your station/show, and how you use them to engage your

audience.

Images: A maximum of 10 images can be uploaded in support of this entry.
Links: A maximum of 5 multimedia links can be uploaded in support of this entry.

This cannot include any links to audio.

Best Newcomer

This category is for a member of a student radio station who has been involved for
less than one year in student radio as a whole. They deserve particular recognition
for their overall contribution to the station and not necessarily just their presenting
efforts. This award is open to students who can provide details of their
achievements not only on-air, but also off-air as well. The written description from
the entrant should include information for the judges about how they got involved in
the station. You should demonstrate their skills, whether on-air or off-air, as well as
creativity and taking initiative. The judges will also be looking for examples of being
involved as a team player in the student radio station and a demonstrable

understanding of the medium in general.

Audio: Maximum audio entry length is 5 minutes, if applicable. You must state each
clip in the Running Order. Podcast content can be used for this category but must

not represent more than 25% of the total entry.

Written: A maximum of 500 words from the entrant and 500 words from your station
manager (or similar). These should be uploaded in the corresponding text fields.
Images: A maximum of 5 images can be uploaded in support of this entry.

Best News and Journalistic Programming

This category is designed to recognise programmes that form part of the station’s
news or current affairs output. One-off special features or programmes will be
considered as well as regular programmes and services; this includes
documentaries and investigations, as well as news-based talk shows. Special
consideration will be given to programmes that are targeted at the student audience
and engage this audience. This category is for programmes that are ‘aimed to
inform’. The judges will be looking for well-prepared and well-presented quality

content that is delivered professionally.

Audio: A compilation of the programme(s). Maximum audio entry length is 5 minutes.
You must state each clip in the Running Order. Please note that podcast content is

not eligible for entry in this category.

Written: A maximum of 500 words about how the programme was presented and
produced, with a particular emphasis on how stories and information were gathered,

developed, and compiled into an informative broadcast.
Images: A maximum of 5 images can be uploaded in support of this entry.

Best Podcast Programming

This category is designed to recognise podcasts that form part of a station’s output,
either on-air or via supplementary channels. These may have been broadcast on the
station or may have been uploaded to external systems such as Soundcloud or
Audioboom on an account belonging to your station. Whilst any podcast is eligible for
this award, the entry should showcase a passion for the topic of choice, as well as
demonstrating technical proficiency in its creation. The judges will also be looking for
a relevance to the student audience, alongside creativity and strong presentation.
The podcast must be originally created to be in this format (i.e. cannot be a show
highlights podcast) and must have originally been made available via your student
station. Work created towards any degree requirements is not eligible.

Audio: A compilation of highlights from the podcast(s). Maximum audio entry is 5

minutes. You must state each clip in the Running Order.

Written: A maximum of 500 words about the podcast and its creation, with a
particular focus on why the topic chosen is of interest, the technical elements of the
podcast and any challenges faced, and the impact of the podcast.

Best Presenter

This category is for a presenter or DJ of a student radio programme, this could be a
music show or a speech programme. The judges will be looking for an outstanding
presenter who provides entertainment and knowledge of their subject. Recognition
will be given for their overall presentation style, skills, and demonstrating an
understanding of their audience. You should showcase a depth of outstanding
content, including features, whilst also illustrating a flair for creativity.

Audio: A compilation of your best on-air output. Maximum audio entry length is 5
minutes. You must state each clip in the Running Order under. Podcast content can
be used for this category but must not represent more than 25% of the total entry.

Written: A maximum of 500 Words about you and your show.

The Joe Lyons Award for Best Producer

This category is designed to recognise an exceptional and passionate producer
working in student radio. Judges will be looking for an understanding and
appreciation of their target audience, with programming decisions that reflect the
audience’s interests, needs and expectations. Entrants should also demonstrate
strong support, guidance and coaching for presenters, alongside creative and

innovative ideas, and excellent production values.

Audio: An audio compilation outlining the shows/content they’ve produced. Maximum
audio entry length is 5 minutes. You must state each clip in the Running Order.
Written: A maximum of 500 words about their production skills, creative ideas, talent
management, hurdles they’ve overcome as a producer, and aspirations for student

radio.

Images: A maximum of 5 images can be uploaded in support of this entry.

Best Specialist Music Programming

This category is for a DJ or presenter of a specialist music radio programme who
deserves particular recognition for their overall presentation style and skills, as well
as high-quality on-air content. The judges will be looking for someone who is
passionate about the music they play, demonstrating in-depth knowledge of the
genre and a devotion to introducing specialist music to their audience.

Audio: A compilation of the programme(s). Maximum audio entry length is 5 minutes.
You must state each clip in the Running Order. Please note that podcast content is

not eligible for entry in this category.

Written: A maximum of 500 words about how the programme was presented and
produced, with a particular emphasis on how specialist music has been sourced and

programmed.

Best Sport Programming

This category is designed to recognise programmes that form part of a station’s sport
output. One-off specials, such as Varsity or live match reporting, will be considered
as well as regular sport or panel shows. Documentaries about sporting events are
also valid for this category. The entry must display a knowledge and passion for
sport at the level it is covered. You should demonstrate the preparation involved for
the coverage, as well as showcasing a high level of quality in both production values

and presentation.

Audio: A compilation of the programme(s). Maximum audio entry length is 5 minutes.
You must state each clip in the Running Order. Please note that podcast content is

not eligible for entry in this category.

Written: A maximum of 500 words about how the programme was presented and
produced, with a particular emphasis on the structure of the show, as well as the

planning and research process.

Best Station Branding

This category recognises stations with an increased awareness of off-air branding.
Entrants should understand the relationship between on- and off-air station imaging,
and how the station communicates its image to a student audience in order to attract
and retain listeners. The quality and strength of off-air material such as promotions,
campaigns, and branding/design will be considered. Street-teams, social media
campaigns, publicity around events and outside broadcasts, and any other off-air
marketing efforts are eligible for this category. The judges will be looking for strong
branding campaigns that creatively support the station’s on-air content in a variety of
ways, whilst engaging with and remaining appropriate to the station’s student

audience.

Audio: No audio submission is required.

Written: A maximum of 1000 words about how the marketing/branding of your station
was developed and how it raised awareness of the station to your listeners.
Images: A maximum of 10 images can be uploaded in support of this entry.
Links: A maximum of 5 multimedia links can be uploaded in support of this entry.

This cannot include any links to audio.

Best Station Sound

This category places a particular emphasis on the quality and technicality of imaging
and station sound. There should be an understanding of how the on- and off-air
presentation of the station complement each other for their marketing. Station Sound
includes all elements of station-led production, such as jingles and idents, bespoke
beds, adverts, and production made for particular events.. The judges will be looking
for a cohesive yet varied collection of on-air materials that helps a listener recognise
the identity of the station, that are creative and well produced, as well as being

appropriate for the medium.

Audio: A compilation capturing how the station’s brand/image is represented on-air.

Maximum audio entry length is 5 minutes.

Written: A maximum of 500 words about how the sound of your station was
developed and how your imaging was implemented across your schedule.

Best Student Radio Station

This category is for the station that has made the biggest impact with its audience in
the last year. You should demonstrate your station’s aims, objectives, and
programming policies, as well as detailing any hurdles that had to be overcome in
working towards these. This entry should showcase the highlights and achievements
for the station over the previous academic year. You should look to showcase the
quality and variety of the station’s output, as well as detailing how you have engaged
with your audience and ensured what you produce is appropriate for them.
Teamwork is also a key component to this category, along with the general

organisation of the station.

Audio: A compilation of the best of your station’s output. It should include output from
across the schedule. Maximum audio entry length is 15 minutes. You must state
each clip in the Running Order. Podcast content can be used for this category but

must not represent more than 25% of the total entry.

Written: A maximum of 2000 words detailing how the station is organised and
operated, as well as highlighting particular successes of the station during the

previous academic year.

Images: A maximum of 10 images can be uploaded in support of this entry.
Links: A maximum of 5 multimedia links can be uploaded in support of this entry.

This cannot include any links to audio.

There is also an additional multimedia link available if the audio file is too large to
upload to the system. To use this, please upload your audio file online and provide
the link for this file, ensuring that the platform used is freely accessible and does not
require anyone to log in or request access to view it. Any file uploaded to such a
platform must remain accessible until 1 January. Note that this additional multimedia
link can only be used for this purpose and uploading anything other than that in this

section will result in your entry being rejected.

Best Technical Achievement

This category celebrates a technical development that has improved your student
radio station. You have identified a need and designed/developed a practical,
successful engineering or IT-based solution to fulfil this need. You should show the
judges the usability of your product and how the project was managed. This
category is designed to showcase innovative and creative ways in which you have
used technology to improve the station and overcome challenges.

Audio: Maximum audio entry length is 5 minutes, if applicable. You must state each

clip in the Running Order.

Written: A maximum of 1000 words about how and why the innovation was designed
and developed, how the work was carried out, and how it impacted the way the

station operates.

Images: A maximum of 10 images, including diagrams, can be uploaded in support

of this entry.

The Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion Award

An award for a show, or on-air team, that uses its content to widen participation,
champion diverse voices and promote actions to remove barriers. Entries should
detail how their content has sought to improve and empower the voices of groups
and individuals so they can be their authentic selves and feel that they have a voice
on their station. The judges will be looking for bold use of on-air content which
makes a positive inclusion of values and represents an intersectional approach.
Strong entries will show how their content has created real, sustained change and
provided a meaningful impact on audiences, station members or the wider

community.

Audio: Maximum audio entry length is 5 minutes, if applicable. You must state each
clip in the Running Order. Please note that podcast content is not eligible for entry in

this category.

Written: A maximum of 500 words describing what your team or station has done to

promote Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion within your station.
Images: A maximum of 5 images can be uploaded in support of this entry.

If you have any questions about The Student Radio Awards 2026,

please email our judging coordinators at
[email protected]