Ready to knock? Play School returns as BBC pushes quality children’s programming

The Guardian UK Thursday 24 September 2026, 15:13 UTC By Michael Savage Media editor 1 min read

Key Points

TV heads hope the revamped show – back after four decades – will win over parents seeking quality shows amid concerns about addictive online contentFor the generations who grew up watching Humpty, Jemima and Big Ted, the mere mention of the BBC’s Play School evokes a pang of childhood nostalgia. The show, which featured much-loved presenters such as Floella Benjamin and Johnny Ball, became synonymous with wholesome children’s television during its run of more than 20 years on air.

TV heads hope the revamped show – back after four decades – will win over parents seeking quality shows amid concerns about addictive online content

For the generations who grew up watching Humpty, Jemima and Big Ted, the mere mention of the BBC’s Play School evokes a pang of childhood nostalgia.

The show, which featured much-loved presenters such as Floella Benjamin and Johnny Ball, became synonymous with wholesome children’s television during its run of more than 20 years on air.

Humpty, Jemima (PERSON) Big Ted (PERSON) Floella Benjamin (PERSON) Johnny Ball (PERSON)

Originally published by The Guardian UK Read original →

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