Radio programme writers work in all areas of the radio field. They often take the news from the wire services and edit or rewrite new stories for local broadcasters.
Radio programme writers also produce story scripts, organize various materials and write each story to format requirements. If necessary, story material is edited and rewritten. They also create feature scripts for news staff and sometimes develop commercials for sponsors.
Satisfying Aspects
- variety of work
- possibly being able to specialize in your field of interest
Demanding aspects
- some work pressure to meet deadlines
- working with over-demanding producers and/or directors
- keep competing for jobs
Requirements
A radio programme writer should:
- be creative;
- be able to produce realistic dialogue;
- be observant, ambitious and self-confident;
- enjoy working with all kinds of people;
- have the ability to meet deadlines.
School Subjects
National Senior Certificate meeting degree requirements for a degree course
National Senior Certificate meeting diploma requirements for a diploma course
Each institution will have its own minimum entry requirements.
Compulsory Subjects: None
Recommended Subjects: History, Languages, Visual Arts, Music
Training
Degree: BA with such subjects as Journalism, English, Literature, Music, History, Art, the Classics.
Most radio programme writers enter the field after graduating from university.
Good writers who have other skills such as announcing, will also be well qualified for this type of position.
Employer
- Radio networks
- Freelance work
- Commercial radio broadcasting stations
- Self-employment, with freelance work
Contact
Contact any of the above mentioned potential employers, such as:
Any of the Regional Managers of the SABC in Pretoria, Cape Town, Durban, Port Elizabeth, Polokwane or Bloemfontein - refer to the telephone directory for addresses and telephone numbers