PODCASTING
EMPOWERING YOUNG STUDENTS IN CUMNOCK
In the vibrant community of East Ayrshire, John McBlain stands out as a beacon of creativity and education. An award-winning lecturer, podcaster and producer, John has woven his passion for digital storytelling and media production into the fabric of Lochnorris Primary School in Cumnock through the innovative ‘Write Record Produce Release’ course and the production of the Lochnorris Studios podcast series. This unique podcasting initiative, part of his work as a Media, Music & Performing Arts Lecturer at Ayrshire College, and broader Jonsan Media network, is not just a platform for engaging content but a transformative educational experience for young learners, proving that even primary school children can harness the power of their voices.
Hailing from Cumnock, John’s work has been commended by the Scottish Government and the Auditor General for Scotland, and he has earned multiple awards and accolades for his work as an educator, podcaster and media producer. John recently attended The Podcast Show conference in London and used this as an opportunity to showcase his work at a national and international level.
Through his production work he has produced several shows, including the award-winning magazine show, Rockpool Podcasts, and 90’s pop music talk show, John’s Jotter: 1999.
John’s ability to connect with diverse personalities has led to memorable interviews with notable figures like RuPaul’s Drag Race superstar, Divina De Campo, Michelin-starred chef, Tom Kerridge, and beloved Scottish comedian, Karen Dunbar.
At the heart of John’s work, however, is Lochnorris Studios, a groundbreaking initiative that brings podcasting to the classrooms of Lochnorris Primary School in Cumnock. As an innovative educator, John recognised the potential of podcasting to empower young students, giving them a creative outlet to express themselves while developing skills in communication, collaboration, and critical thinking. The podcast series – a hub of youthful energy and imagination – allows children to explore topics they care about, from local history to personal passions, all while learning the technical and creative aspects of audio production. The impact is profound: students who might shy away in traditional settings find their confidence behind the microphone; their voices amplified in ways that ripple through their academic and personal growth.
Teaching podcasting to primary school children is no small feat, but John approaches it with warmth and dedication. His methods are inclusive, allowing every child to contribute, whether they are scripting, recording, or editing. The process fosters teamwork, as students work together to craft episodes, learn to listen to one another and value diverse perspectives. For many, it is their first taste of media production, yet the skills they gain – public speaking, storytelling, and digital literacy – are tools they will carry for life.
Parents and teachers have noted how Lochnorris Studios has sparked a newfound enthusiasm for learning, with children eagerly sharing their episodes with pride.
The broader impact on Lochnorris Primary School is equally remarkable. The series has become a point of pride, fostering a sense of community and innovation. It is a podcast where creativity meets education, and John’s vision has turned it into a model for how schools can integrate modern media into the curriculum.
Mr G Todd, Principal Teacher, said: “We are so lucky to have this opportunity at Lochnorris and John’s enthusiasm and passion for the project really engages our young people. This innovative initiative working with primary learners is the first of its kind in the country and we have had so much positive feedback from the children, staff and our parents and carers. It has been lovely to see (and hear!) our learners’ confidence grow behind the microphone and they have really enjoyed approaching their literacy in a new, fun way. We are really excited to have our voices on a global platform and cannot wait to see where Lochnorris Studios goes next.”
