Washington Academy students make their voice heard on BBC Newcastle
Washington Academy students, part of Consilium Academies, were given the exciting opportunity to take part in a live BBC Newcastle interview with journalist Madeline Flack.
The discussion focused on the proposed social media ban for under 16s, with students providing thoughtful and articulate perspectives.
Broadcast live at 7am (Tuesday, January 27, 2026) the interview offered students a unique insight into how radio and the media operate, helping them develop confidence, communication skills, and experience speaking live on air.
Kelly Oakland, Assistant Principal at Washington Academy, said: “We are incredibly proud of our students for representing the school and the trust so professionally.
"This was a fantastic opportunity for them to gain real-world experience in media, build confidence, and develop their communication skills. They approached it with maturity and enthusiasm, and it was wonderful to see them shine on a live broadcast.”
The school would like to thank Madeline Flack and the BBC for providing this valuable experience, which has left a lasting impact on students’ confidence and understanding of the media.