BBC TV is to help children keep up with their studies during the latest lockdown, by broadcasting lessons on BBC Two and CBBC, as well as online.
Schools have been closed to most children across the UK as part of tougher measures announce by Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Monday, in an attempt to control Covid-19.
The BBC will show curriculum-based programmes on TV from Monday, 11th January 2021.
They will include three hours of primary school programming every weekday on CBBC from 9am, and at least two hours for secondary pupils on BBC Two.
During the first lockdown in the spring, lessons were available on iPlayer, red button and online, but not on regular TV channels.
The move comes amid concerns that low-income families may struggle to afford data packages for their children to take part in online learning.
Liberal Democrats Group Leader for North East Derbyshire, Cllr Ross Shipman said: ‘This announcement is very welcome and could benefit many of those on low incomes who have a TV, but no access to other forms of educational material.’
‘I have written to the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture and Sport, Oliver Dowden MP to say that its paramount children do not miss out on these programmes, just because they don’t have a TV licence.’
‘Parents should be able to access children’s TV programming during lockdown, without the fear of being prosecuted for non payment.’
NOTES:
BBC to put lessons on TV during lockdown – https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-55552962