The BBC and YouTube have confirmed their strategic partnership that will see the public broadcaster invest in new YouTube-first programming, expand its channel strategy and launch a UK-wide creator skills and training programme.
The BBC said the move forms part of its “value for all” strategy, aimed at making more BBC content accessible “where audiences are”, alongside its own platforms. New programming will launch simultaneously on YouTube and BBC services including iPlayer and BBC Sounds.
Reports prior to the announcement had suggested that content would be released to YouTube first.
Tim Davie, BBC Director-General, said the partnership would help the BBC connect with audiences “in new ways”, combining “bold homegrown content” with “an unprecedented training programme” for creators. YouTube VP EMEA Pedro Pina added the deal would translate BBC content for a digital-first audience and invest in the UK’s “creative pipeline” for the global creator economy.
The corporation said its YouTube expansion will focus on four areas: building targeted communities for children and young adults; promoting key BBC programme brands; delivering “trusted” news through new global channels, live story streams and new formats; and driving commercial growth via global fandoms and brand partnerships.
As part of the children and young audiences push, the BBC plans to launch new targeted channels including Deepwatch (working title), featuring new and existing documentaries, and seven new children’s channels. One of the proposed launches is The Epic Facts channel, drawing on titles including Operation Ouch, Horrible Histories, Horrible Science and Deadly 60.
The partnership also includes collaboration to “showcase more BBC moments that bring the UK together” on YouTube.
The BBC and YouTube said they will align activity with the government’s Creative Industries Sector Plan, building on initiatives including BBC Studios’ TalentWorks and BBC Creator Lab and YouTube’s Launchpad, Accelerators and Masterclass series.
Led by the National Film and Television School, 150 media professionals will be invited to develop YouTube skills through workshops and events, with a curated training programme hosted online and at BBC hubs in Salford, Birmingham, Glasgow, Newcastle, Belfast and Cardiff.
