A website especially for children aged 7-11, with information for parents and teachers, has been set up by the BBFC. Launched today, www.cbbfc.co.uk will show children how and why the BBFC classifies films, videos, DVDs and some games. The site is based on a cartoon version of the BBFC headquarters and allows visitors to visit various rooms in 3 Soho Square, find out about the people who work at the BBFC, how the examiners do their jobs and to try their hands at classifying clips from the latest 'U' and 'PG' rated films. There will also be regular competitions.
As well as being interesting and entertaining for young visitors, the site is designed to provide an educational resource for teachers and parents interested in media education with resource materials available to download for use in schools and at home. The site introduces children to the principles of classification and the guidelines used to classify films and videos. It also explains the stages a film or video goes through from arrival at the BBFC to receiving a certificate.
Robin Duval, Director of the BBFC said:
“ I am sure that www.cbbfc.co.uk will be popular with both children and adults alike. We know that many schools, and in particular primary and middle schools, cannot access the BBFC's main website because the language necessarily used is blocked by many of the 'net nanny' systems.
“We know from our visits to schools around the country that media education is a significant element in many timetables and we are sure that this website will provide a valuable educational resource. It is also fun, and it important for parents to know that children accessing it at home will be in a safe environment.
“The site has been developed by a team of our examiners who specialise in children's issues. They worked closely with children from St Mary's Bryanston Square CE Primary School in Enford Street, London and we are very very grateful for their help. The site will be updated regularly and we look forward to receiving feedback from children and adults alike. We hope that the children who visit the cbbfc will use what they learn from the site to become even more discerning viewers as they grow up.”
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