BBC Sounds Audio Lab Returns: Applications Open for Aspiring Audio Creators 2025

The BBC Sounds Audio Lab programme is back for its fourth year, aiming to unearth and develop the next wave of innovative audio creators. This prestigious initiative will provide selected participants with a transformative platform to craft compelling podcasts that reflect the diverse experiences of people across the UK.

BBC Sounds Audio Lab Returns: Discovering the Next Generation of Audio Creators

Comprehensive Support for Aspiring Creators

This year, the Audio Lab programme will select four creators to receive full-time salaries at the Assistant Producer level over a seven-month period, from July 2025 to January 2026. In addition to financial support, the programme offers:

Specialized Production Training: Tailored training sessions to sharpen practical and professional skills.
Dedicated Mentorship: Expert guidance from seasoned industry professionals.
Placement Opportunities: Collaboration with renowned production partners, including BBC teams and independent production companies.

Collaboration with Leading Production Partners

Participants will work with esteemed production teams across the UK:

BBC Audio Scotland and Northern Ireland (Glasgow and Belfast)
Persephonica (Sheffield)
BBC Audio North (Salford)
Reduced Listening (London)

These partnerships ensure exposure to diverse creative processes and advanced production environments.

Celebrating Past Successes

Since its inception, the Audio Lab programme has proven to be a springboard for creative talent. Alumni have secured prestigious roles and accolades within the industry. Notably, the podcast Sacred Money won the Specialist Podcast award at the British Podcast Awards in 2024, underscoring the programme’s excellence.

Industry Insights from BBC Leadership

Khaliq Meer, Commissioning Executive for BBC Sounds Audio Lab, shared his enthusiasm for the programme:

“We are proud to bring back BBC Sounds Audio Lab for its fourth year, continuing our commitment to nurturing emerging talent and fostering creative new ideas from across the UK. The success of Sacred Money, which won Specialist Podcast at the British Podcast Awards in 2024, highlights the exceptional quality and industry recognition our programme achieves. With podcast listenership at an all-time high and BBC Sounds seeing 2.3 billion plays across all content in 2024, there has never been a better time for the next generation to join us and benefit from the unparalleled support and resources we and our partners can offer.”

Who Should Apply?

The Audio Lab programme seeks individuals with a passion for audio storytelling and some prior experience in creating audio or narrative content. Ideal candidates might have:

Self-published audio or video content on major social media platforms.
Produced or presented shows on community radio stations.
Held junior production roles.

Applicants should have:

A compelling idea for a podcast focusing on conversations, stories, or unique perspectives.
Skills in writing, interviewing, recording, editing, or presenting.
An eagerness to develop their craft under expert guidance.

Supporting Aspiring Applicants

To assist potential candidates, the programme will host an informative webinar on Monday, 20 January, at 6 PM. The session will be available for replay on the Audio Lab website, providing detailed guidance on the application process and addressing common queries.

How to Apply

Applications open on Tuesday, 14 January, and close on Tuesday, 11 February. Interested individuals can apply through the BBC Careers Hub. For additional details, terms, and conditions, visit the BBC Sounds Audio Lab website.

Embracing Diversity

BBC Sounds Audio Lab actively encourages applications from underrepresented groups across the UK, reinforcing its commitment to inclusivity and representation in the audio industry.

Key Dates:

Application Opens: Tuesday, 14 January 2025
Application Deadline: Tuesday, 11 February 2025
Webinar: Monday, 20 January 2025, 6 PM (Available on-demand post-session)
Programme Period: July 2025 – January 2026