The BBC has announced plans to revive the classic pre-school television programme Play School, adapting it with shorter episodes and updated content to suit contemporary young audiences. The original series, which aired from 1964 until 1988, featured familiar characters such as Humpty, Jemima, Big Ted, Little Ted, and Hamble, and became a cherished part of many children’s early media experiences in the UK.

In its latest initiative, the broadcaster has invited production companies to submit proposals for a new version of the show, envisioning modern approaches that incorporate the original toys while addressing current viewing habits. One significant change is the reduction of episode length from approximately 25 minutes to around 14 minutes, reflecting a shift toward shorter programming believed to better accommodate today’s children’s attention spans.

While Play School will be updated to reflect modern values and expectations, the BBC intends to preserve the core elements that made the series beloved. This includes retaining the well-known toy characters, though some aspects are expected to be revised. For example, the rag doll Jemima, once described by presenter Fred Harris as an “empty-headed bimbette,” is unlikely to be portrayed similarly in the new iteration, signaling a move away from outdated characterizations.

The revival will also introduce a new group of presenters to succeed well-known figures from the original run, such as Floella Benjamin and Brian Cant, who were central to the programme’s appeal. The BBC stated it is seeking “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.”

The initiative reflects the broadcaster’s broader strategy to update its children’s content, blending nostalgia with contemporary educational and entertainment standards. Further details, including commissioning decisions and production timelines, have yet to be announced.