Image: Channel 4 Press
By Jon Donnis
Channel 4 has announced Undercover Education, a new branded entertainment series launching in 2025 in partnership with the Department for Education (DfE) and MG OMD. Hosted by television presenter and author Konnie Huq, the show takes an unconventional approach to highlighting the skills required for further education teaching. In this "prank show with purpose," industry professionals from construction, motor mechanics, and catering unknowingly take on the role of teachers. Paired with an "intern" who is actually an undercover further education teacher, they are fed conversation prompts through an earpiece by students and Huq to test their patience, creativity, and ability to mentor others. The show aims to reveal how hands-on industry experience can translate into a teaching career, encouraging more professionals to consider stepping into the classroom.
The series, produced by Zandland, will be available across Channel 4's YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and streaming platforms. Konnie Huq described the experience as both fun and insightful, saying, "It was great to work with the participants in these three fields to see their knowledge and the power of mentorship, whilst of course having a lot of fun coming up with the conversations and pranks carried out by the undercover interns." Channel 4's Rupinder Downie called the show "engaging, surprising, and heartwarming," while Digital Commissioning Executive Stephen Parnell highlighted its potential to introduce new talent and inspire viewers. Executive Producer Josh Reynolds described the series as a "unique social experiment" that blends entertainment with a meaningful message about the value of further education.
No comments:
Post a Comment