Harley Young goes behind the scenes of the BBC kids TV show at its new home, Versa Studios
Blue Peter has graced our screens for well over sixty years, with the first episode airing on 16 October 1958; a 15-minute programme presented by Christopher Trace and Leila Williams.
From the iconic theme tune that’s engrained itself in our brains, to ‘here’s-one-I-made-earlier’ crafting sessions that had our parents running round the house looking for PVA glue, pipe cleaners and saved-up cardboard loo roll tubes, generation after generation will have fond memories of the educational show.
Now in its 67th year, the show - created by BBC Studios Kids & Family Productions for BBC Children’s & Education - will take on an exciting new chapter, having relocated to a brand new Manchester city centre studio just off Deansgate.
The move to Versa Studios at Campfield Studios allows the timeless TV show to continue to adapt, meeting the needs and interests of its audience while staying true to its core. Starting this September, a new look and format will be revealed, aiming to appeal to new and existing audiences as viewing preferences continue to shift towards digital platforms.
Sarah Muller, Senior Head of Children’s Commissioning +7, BBC Children’s and Education, says: “As the longest running children’s TV show in the world, Blue Peter holds a unique place in the hearts of multiple generations and the show’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to encourage and inspire children to be curious, adventurous and imaginative,” adding “It’s a legacy that we’re very much looking to protect here with this work that we’re doing. Children’s content remains an absolute priority for the BBC.”
After a tour of the set, a bug hotel crafting session with none other than CBBC legend Hacker T Dog and a quick cuddle with Blue Peter pup, Henry, I met the show's current presenters; Shini Muthukrishnan, Abby Cook and Joel Mawhinney to find out more about what a day on set looks like for them.
“I arrive early, at around 7am, for makeup - Joel strolls in about ten minutes before,” laughed Shini, adding “we normally have the day wrapped up by about 5pm, 6pm.”
Per day of shooting, the team typically records two episodes worth of content as well as some clips for social media.
School groups and children will continue to be invited into the creative studio to experience the magic of how the shows are brought to life. Young viewers will also continue to be encouraged to submit their own ideas, artwork, and participate in competitions.
The Blue Peter Garden remains at Media City, as well as the garden at RHS Bridgewater - both of which will continue to be used for filming. The show will continue to be sandwiched together by the production and post-production teams at Media City Salford.
Check out my behind-the-scenes visit below:
Watch Blue Peter in its new studio from Friday 5 September at 5pm - available to watch on CBBC, BBC Two, Sign Zone and also BBC iPlayer where kids can rewatch their favourite episodes anytime, anywhere.
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