PTV NETWORK NEW ZEALAND TO LAUNCH SCHOOLS TV IN 2025
@NuStraya @nztv @TV4 Below is a mock press release which is based on one of the what if scenarios in which I created and shared.
As the landscape of education continues to evolve in response to the demands of the modern world, PTV Network New Zealand is pleased to announce that it will collaborate with the Ministry of Education to launch a brand new initiative: Schools TV.
This ambitious project is set to launch on Monday 10 February 2025 and aims to deliver engaging, curriculum-based educational content for primary and intermediate schools throughout New Zealand in a commercial-free environment.
With the block running on PTV Shake from 10am to 2pm on weekdays during the school term, Schools TV promises to be a game changer in how educational content is delivered and consumed.
Schools TV will feature a diverse range of educational content which spans an array of subjects crucial to the development of young minds. From English and maths to science, social studies, technology and te reo Māori, the content is designed to be entertaining and informative, capturing the attention of children while facilitating learning. This initiative addresses the need for accessible educational resources resonating with today’s youth and incorporates elements which appeal to their interests and learning styles.
The local programmes within Schools TV will be produced primarily at Wellington’s Avalon Studios, showcasing the talents of a pool of dedicated teachers from within the Wellington region. In a bid to promote the importance of te reo Māori, the language lessons will be produced at the network’s Auckland studios and presented by teachers from Ngā Puna o Waiōrea. This local focus not only emphasises cultural relevance but also fosters a sense of community within educational broadcasting.
Enhancing the local offerings, Schools TV will also incorporate a selection of educational programmes from the BBC. Popular shows such as Operation Ouch, Deadly 60, The Dengineers, Art Ninja, Andy’s Aquatic Adventures and Blow Your Mind will be featured during the lunch break slot at 12 noon. This inclusion of internationally recognised content not only enriches the viewing experience but also provides students with a broader perspective on different subjects.
The structured schedule of Schools TV will be designed to optimally deliver educational content, with a half hour lesson commencing at 10am, followed by 45 minute lessons at 10.30am, 11.15am, 12.30pm and 1.15pm respectively. The 12 noon slot will serve as a dedicated time for engaging BBC content, ensuring students receive a well rounded education which keeps their curiosity ignited.
Fridays will introduce a unique twist to Schools TV, focusing on consolidation of learning with a ‘review and practice’ session at 1.15pm. This structured approach ensures learning is not just a passive experience but an interactive and engaging one, further enhancing student engagement.
Iona Holsted, CEO of the Ministry of Education and Secretary for Education, expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasising the potential impact high quality educational television can have on students.
“The combination of educational content and entertainment will not only captivate our children’s attention but also support their learning journey in a meaningful way,” Holsted stated.
This partnership signifies a deep commitment to improving student outcomes through innovative educational strategies that harness the power of visual media.
A spokesperson for PTV Network New Zealand also expressed excitement about the new initiative, highlighting the importance of making learning accessible and engaging for New Zealand’s youth. The network recognises the influence of the media in everyday lives and, in turn, is leveraging this to enhance the educational experience.
Schools TV will not only benefit students but also educators by providing valuable teaching resources. The content will be recorded and made available for download, allowing teachers to integrate Schools TV into their classroom activities seamlessly.
The Schools TV section of PTV Network New Zealand’s corporate website (ptv.co.nz/schoolstv) will host a wealth of teacher resources, including educational materials, lesson plans and activity guides designed to enhance the learning experience. By providing comprehensive support to teachers, Schools TV aims to foster collaboration and innovation within the classroom setting, ensuring educational television translates into meaningful learning experiences.
A live stream of PTV Shake, the network’s dedicated youth-oriented general entertainment channel, will also be available on PTV+. This feature enables students to access Schools TV content live and on demand, allowing for flexible learning opportunities which cater for individual preferences and schedules. With this convenience learners can revisit lessons, explore topics in greater depth and engage with content at their own pace.
The launch of Schools TV represents an exciting innovation in education, combining engaging visuals, interactive content and structured learning to enhance the primary and intermediate education experience in New Zealand. Through local programmes the integration of global content, Schools TV aims to bridge the gap between traditional education and modern techniques, providing students with a platform that inspires curiosity and fosters a love for learning.
As the initiative prepares for its February launch, anticipation builds among educators, parents and students alike. Schools TV is set to be more than just a television programme; it is a commitment to nurturing the next generation of learners and equipping them with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in an ever evolving world.
By making education captivating and accessible, PTV Network New Zealand and the Ministry of Education are paving the way for a brighter future where learning knows no bounds.
PTV Shake’s weekday programming will open at 6am with Schools TV to follow at 10am and then resume at 2pm.