Did you know that the BBC is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2022? The BBC started its first daily radio service in London in 1922, it only broadcast for a few hours, mainly news and ‘talks’. The BBC is a national institution here in the UK, but what exactly is it? It’s both impartial and independent, and every day creates distinctive, world-class programmes and content which inform, educate and entertain millions of people in the UK and around the world.

Growing up with only 4 tv stations I’ve always enjoyed BBC programmes on the radio and television. There’s so much more competition today from streaming services, but the BBC are still a big part of our lives.

100 years of the BBC

Why are we celebrating 100 years of the BBC this year? The BBC started its first daily radio service in London in 1922, although it only broadcast for a few hours, mainly news and ‘talks’. This was followed in 1923 by the first issue of the Radio Times, listing the programmes available to listen to.

In 1924 the six electronically generated “pips” which indicated the precise time on BBC radio were invented by the Astronomer Royal and the Director-General of the BBC. The six short tones marked the hour every hour and are still heard today.

In 1930 the first play was broadcast in the UK on a low-definition 30-line television system. In 1932 Broadcasting House opened as the purpose built home of the BBC. Women’s Hour (which I love) wasn’t introduced until 1946. BBC Television Centre opened in 1960. In 1967 BBC Two was the first colour channel in Europe. There are so many ‘firsts’ for the BBC that it’s fun to learn more about it.

A number of special events are taking part to mark 100 years of the BBC – hopefully there will be something you can join in with!

Crafts to celebrate 100 years of the BBC

Having grown up watching Blue Peter I have to admit that I was always inspired by the “here’s one I made earlier” segments. I loved to make the crafts on the show and have enjoyed watching it again with my children. My daughter recently made the Summer Reading Challenge Bookmarks, adapting the design to make bookmarks for everyone! I thought it would be fun to celebrate 100 years of the BBC with some crafts but it was trickier than I thought to find some!

Celebrate 100 years of the British Broadcasting Corporation with this craft stick Union flag.

Print out this free colouring sheet featuring the iconic logo of the BBC and get out the colouring pencils.

A few years ago we enjoyed making the Clangers Planet play scene with the contents of the recycling bin and some papier mache paste.

Celebrate Pudsey and Children In Need which since 1980 has raised over £1.5 billion for disadvantaged children and young people in the UK. We love this post on making your own Pudsey ears.

My daughter was obsessed with Peppa Pig for a few years and we loved trying to make a Peppa Pig nose.

It’s so easy to be inspired by your favourite BBC programme. We loved this Dr Who wreath we found on Pinterest and have so many ideas for more crafts and activities.

Don’t forget children can apply for Blue Peter badges which will give them free entry to all kinds of attractions. Find out how to get your free Blue Peter badges here.