Newsround: Five Decades of News for the Next Generation
London, 24 February 2026 – As the BBC continues to evolve its children’s programming, Newsround remains a cornerstone of the CBBC schedule. Originally launched as an experiment in 1972, the programme has transitioned from a single television bulletin into a multi-platform digital service. Today, it serves an audience aged 5 to 15, providing a mix of world events, human interest stories, and educational content across its website, social media, and daily broadcasts.
Recent Headlines and Global Updates
In the last week, Newsround has covered a diverse range of stories, from environmental breakthroughs to international weather crises. Key reports include:
- US Winter Storms: Millions of people across the United States are facing travel disruptions and power outages following record-breaking snowfall.
- Conservation Success: Giant tortoises have been successfully reintroduced to Floreana Island in the Galápagos, marking the return of the species to the area after nearly 200 years of extinction.
- Scientific Discovery: A new species of dinosaur has been named in honour of a school teacher in Wales, after one of his former students pursued a career in palaeontology.
- Space Exploration: The Artemis II mission, which aims to send astronauts around the Moon for the first time in half a century, has faced new scheduling delays.
The Legacy of Newsround: Key Facts
Since its inception, the programme has been a training ground for some of the UK’s most recognisable journalists and has set the standard for youth-orientated news.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| First Presenter | John Craven (1972–1989) |
| Original Title | John Craven’s Newsround |
| Target Audience | Children aged 5 to 15 years old |
| Notable Alumni | Krishnan Guru-Murthy, Julie Etchingham, and John Humphrys |
| Current Format | TV bulletins, website, and social media platforms |
| Staffing | Approximately 25 journalists, including 6 main presenters |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the first person to present Newsround?
John Craven was the inaugural presenter. He fronted the programme for 17 years and presented more than 3,000 bulletins, becoming a household name across the UK.
Why do presenters sometimes hold a gaming controller?
Presenter Emma-Louise Amanshia recently clarified that she occasionally uses a Nintendo Switch controller during broadcasts. While some viewers found it unusual, it is used as a technical tool to help manage the flow of the digital presentation.
What kind of stories does Newsround cover?
The programme covers a broad spectrum of news, ranging from serious global events like the recent US tariffs and Middle East tensions to lighter stories, such as therapy penguins visiting care homes or the latest updates on Pokémon-style nature apps for children.