The BBC has penned a deal with BT that will see mobile data charges removed from all BBC Bitesize content by the end of January.

EE, BT Mobile, and Plusnet Mobile customers accessing content for kids on Bitesize will be able to watch, read, and interact with all the available content, even if they have run out of data. In addition, no registration will be required to access the content through the BBC website or Bitesize app.

“With the pandemic forcing schools to close again we should not allow a lack of digital access to further impact children’s education. This is why I’m delighted we have agreed this partnership with BT to remove data charges when accessing the BBC’s brilliant Bitesize content,” said Tim Davie, BBC Director General. “The BBC will continue to do all we can to ensure every child, whatever their circumstances, can continue to access vital educational materials during this time.”

The agreement, which will end when schools reopen across the UK, is part of BT’s ‘Lockdown Learning’ support scheme, which is working with the Department of Education to help children continue learning while we are locked down.

As part of the scheme, BT is giving out unlimited mobile data to the children who need it most and handing out thousands of free wi-fi vouchers to schools and charities for families without an internet connection. These vouchers provide access to BT’s wi-fi hotspots.

“We want to ensure that no child is left behind in their education as a result of this pandemic, and recognise that we all have a role we can play to help families and carers continue their children’s education while schools are closed,” said Marc Allera, CEO of BT Group’s consumer division.

“That’s why, as part of our ‘Lockdown Learning’ support scheme launched last week, we’re proud to partner with the BBC and be the first network to zero rate BBC Bitesize and allow all of our mobile customers to access its incredible content without using up any data.”