CBeebies is reviving iconic children's TV show for 'new generation'
The BBC is accepting proposals for a revival of a classic children's TV show.
The BBC is reviving Play School for the first time in almost 40 years.
The pioneering children's TV show, which ran from 1964 to 1988, was originally launched to help "recreate nursery and playgroup experiences at home", and now the broadcaster wants to bring it back for a new generation.
Patricia Hidalgo, Director of BBC Children's and Education, said: "Play School has always embodied so much of what CBeebies stands for: creativity, curiosity, imagination and learning through play.
"Bringing it back for a new generation is a meaningful opportunity to build on that legacy, while continuing to support parents and carers through CBeebies Parenting and the wider commitment set out in our Parenting Promise."
The BBC is now accepting pitches as it looks to commission a new series made up of 50 episodes of 14 minutes each, plus "70 minutes of additional content for CBeebies Parenting, a new YouTube channel supporting parents and carers".
Ideally pre-production will start in February 2027, with half the episodes airing in 2027/28, and the rest in 2028/29.
The BBC said: "We’re open to new and modern takes on the classic programme and we’re looking for creative visions about how the series can retain the much-loved elements whilst evolving to meet the needs of the audience today and a shorter episode duration."
They want the new Play School to maintain the "warm and inviting tone and the way in which the presenters spoke directly to viewers".
Proposals should also feature suggestions for presenters across different backgrounds and interests.
The BBE continued: "The toys – Humpty, Jemima, Big Ted, Little Ted and Hamble, later replaced by Poppy - remain some of the most cherished elements of Play School and are fondly remembered by generations of viewers.
"We would like the new version of the programme to bring to life a version of the toys in a contemporary capacity aligned to the expectations of today’s children."
This could include new characters, or even presenting the original characters as animation.
Meanwhile, proposals are also free to make suggestions for features to retain or replace as part of the shortened format.
The announcement that BBC is bringing the show comes as CBeebies has launched its Parenting Promise.
The promise is "to support parents and carers to help every child in the UK learn, grow and thrive through trusted, joyful and high-quality experiences that spark curiosity, build confidence and make learning through play part of everyday life".
