The Blue Peter Badge Scheme is a fantastic opportunity for children aged 6-15 years to earn a badge that grants them free entry to over 200 UK attractions until their 16th birthday.
This guide will walk you through the process of applying for a Blue Peter Badge, the types of badges available, and the benefits of having one.
Benefits of a Blue Peter Badge
A Blue Peter Badge provides numerous benefits, including free entry to various attractions across the UK. These attractions range from theme parks to museums, zoos, and historical sites. This can save families a significant amount of money on days out, making it an excellent reward for children’s creative efforts.
Types of Blue Peter Badges
There are several types of Blue Peter Badges, each awarded for different achievements:
- Blue Badge: Awarded for interesting letters, stories, poems, good ideas, and creative contributions. Once you have a blue badge, you can apply for a silver badge.
- Green Badge: Awarded for letters, stories, poems, or pictures about the environment, conservation, or nature.
- Silver Badge: Given to Blue Badge holders who create something extra interesting, like a picture, poem, piece of art, or story.
- Orange Badge: Awarded to competition winners.
- Fan Club Badge: Given for writing a review of a Blue Peter episode via the provided form.
- Music Badge: Designed by Ed Sheeran, awarded for sharing musical talent by sending a photo of you playing an instrument.
- Sport Badge: Limited edition and awarded for trying a new sport, available each summer.
- Gold Badge: Extremely rare, awarded for exceptional circumstances, achievements, or bravery.
How to Apply for a Blue Peter Badge
Applying for a Blue Peter Badge is straightforward, but it requires effort and creativity. Here’s how to apply:
- Create Something Interesting: Encourage your child to create something unique. This could be a story, artwork, poem, or picture. The more effort and creativity they put into it, the better.
- Write a Letter: Include a letter explaining why they deserve the badge, detailing what they have created. Make sure to include their full name, date of birth, home postal address, and postcode.
- Choose the Right Badge: Specify which badge they are applying for. If they already have a blue badge, they can apply for a silver badge by creating something else interesting.
- Send the Application: Mail the creation and letter to Blue Peter, Media City, Salford, M50 2BH. Ensure the envelope is properly addressed and includes all necessary details.
Applications typically take around 10 weeks to process, so it is advisable to apply well in advance if you plan to use the badge for specific events or holidays.
Attractions Offering Free Entry
Blue Peter Badge holders are entitled to free entry to over 200 attractions across the UK. Here are some highlights:
- Adventure Island Theme Park
- Blackpool Pleasure Beach
- Blackpool Zoo
- Eden Project
- Edinburgh Zoo
- Kew Gardens
- Monkey World
- The Royal Yacht Britannia
- Stonehenge
- Tower of London
- Twycross Zoo
- London Zoo
For a detailed list of all participating attractions, you can visit the Blue Peter website or check their official list.
Encouraging Children to Apply
Applying for a Blue Peter Badge can be a rewarding challenge for children. It encourages creativity, effort, and persistence. Here are some tips to motivate your child to apply:
- Set a Challenge: Make it a fun activity during school holidays or weekends. Set specific goals and offer support as they work on their creations.
- Research Together: Look up previous badge winners and their submissions to inspire your child. Discuss what makes each submission unique and how they can make theirs stand out.
- Reward Effort: Regardless of the outcome, celebrate your child’s effort and creativity. This positive reinforcement will encourage them to try again in the future.
For more information on the Blue Badge application process and related topics, visit the following articles on our website:
Common Questions and Misconceptions
1. How long does it take to receive a Blue Peter Badge?
Applications typically take around 10 weeks to process. It is advisable to apply well in advance if you plan to use the badge for specific events or holidays.
2. Can my child apply for more than one type of Blue Peter Badge?
Yes, your child can apply for different types of badges. For instance, they can first earn a Blue Badge and then apply for a Silver Badge by creating something else interesting.
3. Are there any restrictions on the free entry benefits?
Yes, children need to be accompanied by a paying adult and must wear their badge to gain free entry to participating attractions.
Applying for a Blue Peter Badge is a wonderful opportunity for children to showcase their creativity and earn rewards that offer free entry to numerous attractions across the UK. By following the steps outlined in this guide, your child can enjoy the benefits of a Blue Peter Badge and have memorable experiences at various sites. For more information on related topics, visit our additional resources linked above.
Encouraging your child to apply for a Blue Peter Badge not only provides them with tangible benefits but also fosters creativity, persistence, and a sense of accomplishment.