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The summer holidays are in full swing, but keeping children entertained for six weeks can be a challenge, especially on days when the weather is simply too hot to be outdoors. Educational TV programmes can be a great way to keep young minds active while learning something new as a family.

Deadly Mission Shark

If your children love animals and adventure, Deadly Mission Shark is a fantastic choice. Hosted by wildlife presenter Steve Backshall, this series follows 10 children as they learn to scuba dive, overcome their fears and come face-to-face with incredible predators such as lemon, bull and tiger sharks.

What you’ll learn: Marine biology, conservation and ocean habitats.
Watch on: CBBC and BBC iPlayer.

The Green Planet

Narrated by Sir David Attenborough, The Green Planet reveals the extraordinary hidden world of plants. Using groundbreaking filming techniques, the series shows how plants communicate, survive and compete in environments across the globe.

It’s a fascinating watch for both children and adults, helping families better understand the natural world right on their doorstep and beyond.

What you’ll learn: Plant science, ecosystems and biodiversity.
Watch on: BBC iPlayer.

Our Yorkshire Farm

For families interested in farming and rural life, Our Yorkshire Farm offers a fascinating look at life on a working farm in the Yorkshire Dales.

Viewers discover how rural communities live and work throughout the seasons, from caring for animals to managing the challenges of life on a working farm.

What you’ll learn: Agriculture, food production and rural life.
Watch on: Channel 5 and My5.

Horrible Histories

Horrible Histories brings the past to life through comedy sketches, songs and memorable characters.

From ancient Egypt and the Romans to Victorian Britain and the Second World War, the series covers a huge range of historical topics while keeping younger (and older) audiences thoroughly entertained.

What you’ll learn: British and world history.
Watch on: CBBC and BBC iPlayer.

Secret Life of the Zoo

Set at Chester Zoo, this popular series follows the lives of animals and the work of the expert teams who care for them.

From endangered species conservation to animal health and behaviour, the programme offers an educational behind-the-scenes look at one of the UK’s best-known zoos.

What you’ll learn: Wildlife conservation, animal care and biology.
Watch on: Channel 4 Streaming.

Operation Ouch!

Hosted by identical twin doctors Dr Chris and Dr Xand, Operation Ouch! is a BAFTA-winning TV series that explores how the human body works through experiments, demonstrations and real-life medical stories.

Whether it’s finding out why we sneeze, how bones heal or what happens during surgery, the programme makes complex science easy to understand and fun to watch.

What you’ll learn: Human biology, medicine and healthy living.
Watch on: CBBC and BBC iPlayer.

Great British Railway Journeys

All aboard! Great British Railway Journeys is packed with fascinating discoveries as presenter Michael Portillo travels across Britain exploring local history, engineering achievements and cultural landmarks.

Each episode introduces viewers to different parts of the UK, making it a great programme for families planning days out or simply wanting to discover more about the country’s heritage.

What you’ll learn: British history, geography and transport.
Watch on: BBC Two and BBC iPlayer.

From exploring the depths of the ocean to discovering Britain’s rich history, these programmes show that learning doesn’t have to stop when school breaks up for summer. Whether you’re looking to entertain curious children on a rainy day or keep cool indoors during a heatwave, there’s something here for every family to enjoy.

Don’t let TV interference spoil your summer viewing

If you notice new interference to your free-to-view TV, there’s a small chance it may be due to mobile signal upgrades. We’re here to help — call us on 0808 13 13 800 (free from UK landlines and mobiles).