Challenge for schools topitch ideas for TV show

SECONDARY SCHOOLS across the UK are being invited to pitch ideas for a new Channel 4 TV programme as part of a nationwide competition.

The competition is part of Channel 4’s 4Schools initiative which aims to encourage students to consider the wide range of careers available to them in the world of broadcasting.

Open to secondary schools this summer term, students will be invited to imagine that Channel 4 is looking for a new show which based in a school, youth club or sports club.

Channel 4’s Managing Director, Nations and Regions, Sinead Rocks said: “Great TV ideas draw inspiration from all ages, all walks of life and all parts of the country.

“Setting this challenge to schools offers students unique insight into how programmes are chosen to be made, and the work that goes on behind the scenes.”

In groups, students will need to come up with a show premise, create a pitch and produce either a short teaser trailer or an advertising poster to convince a Channel 4 programme commissioner that theirs is the best idea.

The national winning team will receive an all-expenses paid trip to a Channel 4 set to see how a real TV show gets made, and there are a range of runner-up prizes. Matt Burton, the Yorkshire headteacher who became a household name after appearing on Channel 4’s hit series Educating Yorkshire, said: “Creative thinking and teamwork are hugely important skills which can help to bring out the best in students, giving them additional tools they can use in the world beyond school.

“This challenge gets those in Years 7-9 working together and develops focus and confidence.

“For children in this age group, linking learning experiences to real-world scenarios has many merits.”