Peter O’Neill: Pioneering 25 Years of Radio Broadcasting Education in Cork

Peter O’Neill has dedicated 25 years to teaching media. He is the course director of radio broadcasting and Juice FM at Cork College of FET. Peter has loved radio since he was young. He recalls listening to Radio Luxembourg at seven years old and always having a transistor radio with him.

At 15, Peter started presenting shows during the summer on CBC, a pirate station in Cork. He later co-founded South Coast Radio, a popular pirate station in the 1980s. He raised €30,000 with local business support. South Coast Radio reached audiences across Munster and London.

In 1987, Peter studied radio and television in Toronto, Canada, where he also worked in radio. He returned to Ireland when the economy improved, joining Radio South, which later became 96fm. His experience in Canada inspired him to teach radio back in Cork.

Peter began teaching broadcasting at a small studio in Bridge Street. He met his wife Finola during one of his courses. His advertising in the Evening Echo led to a surge of interest in his classes. Peter transitioned to teaching full-time while also gaining degrees in economics and education.

He established the Radio Broadcasting course at Cork College of FET in the late 1990s. Now, 25 years later, the course thrives. Peter notes that radio remains popular, with around 80% of adults listening daily. He attributes this to the Irish love for storytelling.

Peter takes pride in his students’ achievements. Nine former students have won IMRO National radio awards, and recent success includes Simon Murdock being named best radio DJ of the year for two consecutive years. His students also won national student media awards and a world college radio day award.

Many of Peter’s students have successful careers in media. Notable alumni include Aisling Roche from Virgin Media and Demi Issac Oviawe from The Young Offenders.

Peter designed the College’s current studio. He ensures it features state-of-the-art equipment equivalent to leading radio stations. He offers QQI level 5 and 6 courses in radio and podcasting. Students operate Juice FM, gaining practical experience in broadcasting.

The program also includes skills like news compiling, voice coaching, and documentary making. Students participate in outside broadcasts at various community events.

After 25 years of teaching, Peter enjoys his work and plans to continue for a few more years. He aims to engage in radio consultancy and expand into podcasting.

For more information about the courses, visit Tramoreroadcampus.ie or listen to Juice FM at 88.7 or through juicefm.ie.