The BBC is inviting independent producers to create content for CBeebies and CBBC, offering a substantial contract opportunity.
- Producers with a substantial base outside London can apply for the £1.8m annual contract starting May 2025.
- The project includes producing over a thousand short content pieces annually, maintaining current presenter line-up.
- Production will occur at MediaCity’s dock10 studio initially, with potential for hybrid virtual reality presentation.
- Winning producers will be announced in February 2025, aiming for familiar yet fresh content.
The BBC has announced an open invitation for independent producers to take charge of creating content for its children’s channels, CBeebies and CBBC. This opportunity, valued at £1.8 million annually over two years, targets producers operating outside of London who can deliver innovative yet consistent programming.
Starting in May 2025, the production will be anchored at MediaCity’s dock10 studio for the first year. The BBC has delineated the production requirements which include 1,440 one-minute links annually for CBeebies and 420 for CBBC. Additionally, the contract calls for 14-minute specials and digital content totalling 240 minutes per year spanning both channels. There is also room for developing bespoke brand extension content, aligning with the channels’ strategic goals.
An emphasis is placed on retaining existing presenters to ensure continuity while exploring new technologies like hybrid virtual reality. This approach reflects the BBC’s intention to maintain a sense of familiarity and reassurance for its young audiences while embracing gentle evolution in content presentation.
The selection process will culminate in February 2025 when the BBC announces the chosen producer. This move is part of the BBC’s broader plan under its Charter Agreement, which aims to introduce competition into its programming and has recently included other high-profile shows such as Blue Peter.
This initiative by the BBC represents a significant opportunity for independent producers to shape beloved children’s programming while adapting to evolving media trends.
