For 67 years, Blue Peter has been a fixture of British children’s television, combining craft, adventure, and a beloved badge reward system. In 2025, the show continues to air weekly on CBBC and BBC iPlayer, though a major change arrived in February when the iconic badge programme was discontinued. Here is what you need to know about the show, its presenters, and what lies ahead.
Since its first broadcast on 16 October 1958, Blue Peter has become the world’s longest-running children’s television programme. Created by the BBC and originally hosted by Christopher Trace and Leila Williams, the show quickly built a loyal audience through its mix of practical makes, charity appeals, and presenter-led challenges. Its name, taken from the blue-and-white flag used by ships leaving port, symbolises a journey – one that has now spanned more than six decades.
Despite persistent rumours in recent years, Blue Peter has not ended. New episodes are recorded and broadcast every Friday at 5pm on CBBC, with full series available on BBC iPlayer. The show’s digital presence has also grown: its official YouTube channel posts craft tutorials, challenges, and behind-the-scenes content, while the Blue Peter website offers games and a personalised area called My Blue Peter.
What Is Blue Peter and Why Is It the Longest-Running Children’s TV Show?
Several factors explain Blue Peter’s endurance. It adapts: from black-and-white studio sets to full digital production. It engages: the Blue Peter appeal has raised millions for charity since 1971. It rewards: the badge programme, though now closed, was a powerful incentive for children to send in creative work. It educates: the show has always mixed entertainment with practical learning – cookery, crafts, and science experiments. It connects: the catchphrase “Here’s one I made earlier” remains instantly recognisable across generations. It innovates: the shift to CBBC in 2012 and the launch of a dedicated YouTube channel have kept the brand relevant to modern audiences. It endures: no other children’s TV programme has run continuously for 67 years.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| First aired | 16 October 1958 |
| Network | BBC (originally BBC One, now CBBC) |
| Total episodes | Over 5,000 |
| Badge types | Blue, Green, Silver, Gold, Purple (special) |
| Free admission (historic) | Over 200 UK visitor attractions |
| Current presenters (2025) | Abby Cook, Joel Mawhinney, Shini Muthukrishnan, Hacker T Dog, Henry the dog |
| Iconic catchphrase | “Here’s one I made earlier” |
| Longest-running children’s show | Confirmed by Guinness World Records |
How to Get a Blue Peter Badge and What Free Entry It Unlocks
The Blue Peter badge was introduced on 17 June 1963. Over the decades, approximately one million badges were awarded to children who submitted a poem, story, artwork, recipe, or other creative piece. In exchange, badge holders gained free entry to more than 200 UK attractions, including zoos, museums, castles, and theme parks.
However, the badge programme was discontinued in February 2025. No new badges are being awarded, and the free entry scheme has effectively ended. The BBC has not announced a replacement reward system.
The Blue Peter badge for children was discontinued in February 2025, according to the Blue Peter fandom wiki and other sources. The show itself continues, and children can still submit creative work to My Blue Peter – but they will no longer receive a badge in return.
Can adults still get a Blue Peter badge?
Adults have occasionally been awarded special badges for exceptional achievements, but the main programme was designed for children aged 5–15. With the discontinuation, it is unlikely any new badges of any kind will be issued.
What about the “free entry” for badge holders?
Badge holders previously enjoyed free admission to a network of attractions. That list changed yearly, and no current list is maintained. The BBC advises checking individual attraction websites, but the benefit has effectively lapsed since no new badges are being produced.
Who Are the Current and Past Blue Peter Presenters?
As of September 2025, the show is hosted by four full-time presenters: Joel Mawhinney (joined October 2022), Abby Cook (joined March 2023), Shini Muthukrishnan (joined January 2024), and Hacker T Dog (joined September 2025 as the 44th presenter). The team also includes Henry the dog, a real canine.
Many former Blue Peter presenters went on to notable careers: John Leslie, Anthea Turner, Tim Vincent, and Konnie Huq. Valerie Singleton, Peter Purves, and Lesley Judd are among the most iconic names from the 1970s and 1980s.
How are presenters chosen?
There is no badge application process to become a presenter. Presenters are appointed by the BBC through standard casting and audition procedures. The idea of applying via a badge form is a common misconception.
List of recent presenters
- Joel Mawhinney – 41st presenter, announced 25 October 2022
- Abby Cook – 42nd presenter, announced 6 March 2023; first show 10 March 2023
- Shini Muthukrishnan – 43rd presenter, joined January 2024
- Hacker T Dog – 44th presenter, joined September 2025
Where to Watch Blue Peter in 2025: BBC iPlayer, CBBC & YouTube
Blue Peter airs on CBBC every Friday at 5pm (UK time). All episodes are also available on BBC iPlayer shortly after broadcast, completely free – no subscription or login is required beyond a standard BBC account.
The Blue Peter page on BBC iPlayer holds the current series and a selection of recent episodes. Classic clips and full-length craft videos can be found on the official Blue Peter YouTube channel, which uploads new content weekly.
Watching Blue Peter on CBBC or BBC iPlayer is completely free in the UK. There is no ticket, badge, or payment required. International viewers can access the YouTube channel but may not be able to view iPlayer content due to geographic restrictions.
My Blue Peter and the website
The official BBC Blue Peter website includes a personalised area called My Blue Peter. Children can log in to submit creative work, track their contributions, and play games. The site remains active even after the badge programme ended.
Blue Peter History: Key Milestones from 1958 to 2026
- 1958 – First broadcast, presented by Christopher Trace and Ursula Bowler (source)
- 1963 – Blue Peter badge introduced on June 17; ~1 million awarded over decades (source)
- 1965 – Biddy Baxter becomes editor, shaping the show for 23 years (source)
- 1988 – Biddy Baxter relinquishes editor role
- 2018, Feb 1 – 5,000th edition celebrated; Diamond badge by Henry Holland revealed (limited to 2018) (source)
- 2022, Oct 25 – Joel Mawhinney announced as 41st presenter (source)
- 2023, Mar 6 – Abby Cook becomes 42nd presenter; first show Mar 10 (source)
- 2024, Jan – Shini Muthukrishnan joins as 43rd presenter (source)
- 2025, Feb – Blue Peter badge discontinued; no new awards (source)
- 2025, Sep – Hacker T Dog joins as 44th presenter (source)
- 2026 – Show continues Friday 5pm on CBBC and BBC iPlayer; no official 2026 badge or presenter announcement exists yet (source)
What We Know and What Remains Uncertain About Blue Peter’s Future
| Established information | Information that remains unclear |
|---|---|
| Blue Peter is still broadcasting on CBBC and iPlayer | Whether Blue Peter will end in 2026 (no announcement made) |
| The badge program ended in February 2025 | Exact number of active badge holders |
| Current presenters: Abby Cook, Joel Mawhinney, Shini Muthukrishnan, Hacker T Dog | Which attractions participate in the free entry scheme (list changes yearly and is now obsolete) |
| The show remains the longest-running children’s TV show globally | Full earnings or budget of the show |
Why Blue Peter Matters: Cultural Significance and Digital Shift
Blue Peter occupies a unique position in British cultural history, serving as both a nostalgic touchpoint for adults and a current interactive platform for children. The show’s ability to adapt – from linear broadcast to a multi-platform presence on iPlayer, YouTube, and social media – has allowed it to remain relevant despite the decline of traditional children’s television.
The digital transition is evident: full episodes on iPlayer, regular YouTube craft tutorials, and a strong social media presence have reduced the show’s dependency on scheduled linear TV. The My Blue Peter online portal, launched in the 2010s, gave viewers a personalised way to engage beyond the screen.
The “Blue Peter 2026” search trend suggests public concern about the show’s longevity, likely fuelled by BBC budget cuts and the natural lifecycle of legacy programming. However, as of late 2025, no cancellation has been announced, and the show continues to attract a new generation of viewers.
What the Records Say: Blue Peter in Official Sources
“Blue Peter is the world’s longest-running children’s television show.”
– Wikipedia / Guinness World Records
“The Blue Peter badge is a coveted award that gives children free entry to hundreds of attractions across the UK.”
– BBC Blue Peter badge page (historic, before discontinuation)
“Join Abby, Joel, Shini, Hacker and Henry on epic challenges and adventures.”
– BBC iPlayer description
Blue Peter in 2026: What to Expect
As we move into 2026, Blue Peter continues to air weekly on CBBC and iPlayer with its current presenting team. No official plans indicate the show will end, and no replacement badge programme has been announced. For the most up-to-date information, viewers are advised to follow the official Blue Peter social channels and check BBC Newsround. The phrase “Blue Peter presenters and badge history” remains a popular search topic, reflecting the public’s ongoing curiosity about the show’s legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can adults get a Blue Peter badge?
The badge programme is primarily for children, but adults can occasionally earn special badges for achievements. Since the programme ended in February 2025, new badges are no longer issued.
How long does it take to get a Blue Peter badge?
Typically 4–8 weeks after submission, but with the discontinuation, no new applications are being processed.
Do I need to live in the UK to get a badge?
Historically, the free entry scheme was UK-based, but international viewers could still earn badges by sending in contributions. No new badges are available now.
Can I watch old Blue Peter episodes?
BBC iPlayer keeps recent series; older clips are available on YouTube and in BBC archives.
Is Hacker T Dog a real dog?
Hacker T Dog is a puppet dog character, voiced by a performer. He became the 44th presenter in September 2025.
What happened to the Blue Peter badge in 2025?
The Blue Peter badge for children was discontinued in February 2025. No new badges are awarded, and the free entry scheme has ended.
How can my child still appear on Blue Peter?
Children can submit creative work via My Blue Peter or by post to the BBC, stating they would like to appear on the show. The address is: Blue Peter, MediaCityUK, Salford, M50 2BH.
Is Blue Peter available outside the UK?
BBC iPlayer is geo-blocked to the UK, but the official YouTube channel can be accessed worldwide for clips and full make videos.
Who is the longest-serving Blue Peter presenter?
John Noakes served for 12 years (1965–1978) and is often cited as the longest-serving human presenter. Biddy Baxter was editor for 23 years.
Will there be a Blue Peter special for the 70th anniversary in 2028?
No announcement has been made. The show’s 70th anniversary would fall in 2028, and any plans remain speculative.
Jack Thomas Clarke Thompson is a staff writer for PopCultureDaily.co.uk, covering entertainment news, film, television, streaming and celebrity culture. He works under Editor-in-Chief Harriet Winslow and Managing Editor Lucas Bennett, following the newsroom standards for sourcing, verification and fact-checking set out in our editorial policies.