How to get a Blue Peter badge

Premiered in 1958, today BBC's Blue Peter is the longest-running children's show in the world. The award-winning programme is aimed at kids aged between 6 and 15, and features various activities and educational matters. A Blue Peter badge is a coveted prize awarded to viewers of the show. Read on to find out how to get one.

What is a Blue Peter badge?

Badges were first introduced to Blue Peter by former editor, Biddy Baxter, to recognise the achievements of the shows viewers. They are given to children aged 6 to 15 who have appeared on the show. There are also occasions when adults are awarded with badges. The badges Over the years the badges have altered slightly in appearance. The original of 1963 featured a blue ship mounted on a white shield. This was modernised in the 1990s by artist Tony Hart. However, by popular demand the badges returned to its original format in 1997. There have been a number of special edition badges to commemorate Blue Peter anniversaries.

How to get a Blue Peter badge

In order to be presented with a badge, viewers of CBBC's Blue Peter are required to write an application. With a 50 word minimum, this should either be an interesting story or a review of an episode. Applicants Applicants are encouraged to provide as much information as possible and include any relevant photos or video clips. This will help to make the story stand out from the thousands of other entries. Badges are also awarded to those who appear on the show, often as part of an activity or demonstration.

Types of badge

There are various types of Blue Peter badge as listed below: Blue - Awarded for interesting stories, photos or poems, episode ideas and those appearing on the show. Silver - Given to those who follow up their Blue badge with extra information, e.g. photos to go with a story. Green - Awarded for letters and photos relating to environmental issues such as nature and conservation. Orange - Awarded to the winners and runners-up Blue Peter competitions. Purple - Presented to those chosen to be a Blue Peter Team Player. Applicants must review an episode to be considered. Gold - The Gold badge is the highest award and is reserved for remarkable achievements of heroism and courageousness.

Final word

All badge winners also receive a Blue Peter Badge Card. This grants free access to around 200 UK tourist attractions, including the BBC Television Centre Tour and Tower of London. For more information, application forms and full list of Badge Attractions, visit the Blue Peter website, Bbc.co.uk (cbbc) (bluepeter).