The BBC has unveiled a package of education resources to supporting learning during the Covid-19 crisis.
The initiative will provide 14-weeks of educational programmes and lessons to every household in the country – whatever the child’s age.
Starting on 20 April, the beginning of the summer term for most children, BBC Bitesize Daily will deliver a tailored day of learning across BBC iPlayer, Red Button, BBC Bitesize website and app, BBC Four and BBC Sounds, with curriculum relevant offers across the UK. The package is aimed at minimising disruption to children’s education and providing rhythm and routine.
Faces children will already be familiar with such as Karim Zeroual, Oti Mabuse and Katie Thistleton will be part of Bitesize Daily which will be filmed in Match Of The Day’s studio in Salford.
Working closely with teachers, the Department of Education in England, the Welsh Government, Scottish Government and Northern Ireland Executive, the BBC will provide nation-specific, curriculum led activities and programming to complement the remote learning being offered by schools.
The Premier League, the Royal Shakespeare Company and Puffin Books have also signed up to offer content and activities for both the BBC Bitesize Daily broadcast and BBC Bitesize Online. More partnerships to be announced in coming weeks.
Content will be divided into age groups to enable parents and children to navigate the system.
BBC Bitesize online will home a new Maths and English lesson for every child every day with more subjects to follow.
Tony Hall, Director General of the BBC, said: “In these uncertain times parents look to the BBC to support them and offer education while children can’t be in school. This is the biggest education effort the BBC has ever undertaken. This comprehensive package is something only the BBC would be able to provide.
“We are proud to be there when the nation needs us, working with teachers, schools and parents to ensure children have access and support to keep their learning going – come what may.
“We have been overwhelmed by the offers of help and support in putting this provision together and are looking forward to ensuring every child can continue to learn, and have fun, through our high-quality teaching and accessible education offer.”
UK Government, Education Secretary, Gavin Williamson, said: “Millions of parents are supporting their children to continue learning at home while schools are closed, to help slow the spread of coronavirus.
“As a parent, I know encouraging children to learn at home is no easy task and I am delighted that the BBC has worked with experts and exceptional teachers to create this educational package to support schools and parents by bringing learning to life on TVs, computers and tablets across the country.”
UK Culture Secretary, Oliver Dowden, said: “This is public service broadcasting at its best and will make a big difference to millions of children across the UK while schools are closed. I’m delighted the BBC is working closely with the government to help make sure our children are educated, informed and entertained during these challenging times.”
