Ferryhill College

In 2007, The Life Channel was approached by John Widdowson, Principal of Ferryhill Business College in County Durham, requesting the development of a television network based upon the existing GP Surgery network to engage his students. Delivering age appropriate health, wellbeing and community content, the network would also allow his staff to internally manage the programming broadcast throughout the college with the opportunity to upload their own films to celebrate student achievement and improve internal communication.

As a result, The Life Channel School network was established. Launched by former Prime Minister Tony Blair, The Life Channel Schools network has expanded rapidly, providing a platform for communication within educational venues including primary schools, secondary schools, colleges and, most recently, university campuses.

Each network is tailored to engage students of a specific age, providing support and guidance on a variety of health, wellbeing and community issues whilst allowing national and local authorities to communicate directly with children throughout the day.

At the launch, former Prime Minister Tony Blair commented: "It is a really exciting prospect to extend The Life Channel into community life. Information can be given to people in an 'easy to comprehend' way. Overall, I think The Life Channel will provide something of real benefit, especially to young people."

Meanwhile, Principal John Widdowson said: "We are very excited to be associated with this innovative project. By using new technologies we are able to communicate with young people in new and exciting ways."

A film of the event is available to view below.