Clearing 2026: From campus to BBC Radio 1 – building the skills for a career in broadcasting

A University of Bedfordshire graduate has spoken about how the practical experience and facilities available during his studies helped him build a successful career in broadcasting.

At Bedfordshire, career-focused learning is at the heart of the student experience. Through industry-informed courses, specialist facilities and opportunities to develop practical skills, students are supported to prepare for their chosen careers and achieve their ambitions. If you’re looking to start your studies this year, Clearing is still open until early October, with a dedicated team ready to support applicants. Call 0300 3300 073 or visit www.beds.ac.uk/clearing to find out more.

Sam Darlaston studied Media Performance at the University of Bedfordshire, where access to industry-standard facilities helped inspire his decision to study the course. He has since gone on to become a successful radio presenter, working with BBC Radio 1 and previously KISS FM.

Sam said: "My favourite part of being a University of Bedfordshire student was that there was no ego from anyone. Lecturer, students, staff were all so friendly and relaxed and helpful in times of need. I enjoyed meeting so many people from different areas of the UK and the world, with totally different upbringings, and how everyone just vibed together nicely!

"I made my friends for life at the University. And I'm a firm believer that if your best friends are your biggest supporters, you can achieve anything. If my best friends ever need anything, I will be their biggest cheerleader, and they will for me too. During my university years, I went from a teenager to a young adult and really found myself and my gang.

"I am currently a content creator across many brands and independent content. I am also a radio presenter working for BBC Radio 1. I worked at KISS FM for 11 years straight out of uni. And I also work for Channel 4 as a voiceover artist and script writer.

"Career highlights include working in LA and New York and interviewing movie stars out there, working at The Brits, hosting my own radio show on BBC Radio 1, and launching an independent podcast with Tatum McGreal called ‘Embarrassing For No Reason’ which was recently nominated for two awards in its first year!"

For more information about applying to the University of Bedfordshire via Clearing visit www.beds.ac.uk/clearing or call the Admissions team on 0300 3300 073.