17 June 2003

BBFC LAUNCHES CHILDREN'S WEBSITE

A website especially for children aged 7-11, with informationfor parents and teachers, has been set up by the BBFC. Launched today, www.cbbfc.co.uk will show children how and why theBBFC classifies films, videos, DVDs and some games. The site is based on a cartoon version of the BBFC headquartersand allows visitors to visit various rooms in 3 Soho Square, find out about thepeople who work at the BBFC, how the examiners do their jobs and to try theirhands at classifying clips from the latest 'U' and 'PG' rated films. There will also be regularcompetitions.

As well as being interesting and entertaining for youngvisitors, the site is designed to provide an educational resource for teachersand parents interested in media education with resource materials available todownload for use in schools and at home.The site introduces children to the principles of classification and theguidelines used to classify films and videos.It also explains the stages a film or video goes through from arrival atthe BBFC to receiving a certificate.

Robin Duval, Director of the BBFC said:

I am sure that www.cbbfc.co.uk will be popular with bothchildren and adults alike. We know thatmany schools, and in particular primary and middle schools, cannot access theBBFC's main website because the language necessarily used is blocked by many ofthe 'net nanny' systems.

We know from our visits to schools around the country thatmedia education is a significant element in many timetables and we are surethat this website will provide a valuable educational resource. It is also fun, and it important for parentsto know that children accessing it at home will be in a safe environment.

The site has been developed by a team of our examiners whospecialise in children's issues. Theyworked closely with children from St Mary's Bryanston Square CE Primary Schoolin Enford Street, London and we are very very grateful for their help. The site will be updated regularly and welook forward to receiving feedback from children and adults alike. We hope that the children who visit thecbbfc will use what they learn from the site to become even more discerningviewers as they grow up.

Public Enquiries: 020 7440 1570

Press Enquiries SueClark: 0207440 3285

Press Office Manager: 0207440 0383

Out of Hours Mobile: 07946 423719