Could Your Child Be on a New BBC Series?
An exciting opportunity has come to the Home Ed Circle community — and it's one I wanted to share carefully, because I think it could genuinely mean the world to the right family.
Five Mile Films — the award-winning production company behind Channel 4's much-loved series The Dog House — are casting for a brand-new BBC series. And they've reached out to us because they believe it could resonate deeply with home-educating families.
The series is called Be My Friend, and it's about one of the most tender, sometimes painful parts of growing up — making friends.
What is the show about?
We all know that friendship doesn't always come easily. For some children, the social world feels overwhelming, confusing, or exhausting. They might be brilliant, funny, and full of personality at home — and then quiet and withdrawn the moment they're around other children. They might struggle to find children who understand them, or simply haven't had the same opportunities to build social connections.
This is something many home-educated children navigate in their own way. Without the structure of a classroom, some thrive socially — but others find the path to friendship harder to navigate.
"Friendship difficulties, loneliness, and the effects of modern childhood — from screens to the lingering social impact of Covid — are all topics impacting young children. Some may feel shy, struggle to fit in, or feel more comfortable behind a screen."
The show is being made with real warmth and sensitivity. Child psychologists will work with children to gently build their confidence and social skills across three half-days. Afterwards, they'll be carefully and sensitively matched for a play date with a potential new friend from their local area.
Who are they looking for?
They're looking for children aged 5 to 8 years old from anywhere across the UK who are finding it hard to make friends. Your child might:
- ✦ Feel shy or anxious around other children
- ✦ Get overwhelmed in group social situations
- ✦ Prefer screens or solo play over socialising
- ✦ Struggle to find their place in friendship groups
- ✦ Be warm and wonderful at home but quieter around peers
If any of this sounds familiar, it doesn't mean anything is wrong with your child. It simply means they might benefit from a little expert support — and that this could be a genuinely life-changing experience for them.
What does taking part involve?
Filming will take place in July and August 2026 at locations across the UK. The production team at Five Mile Films are experienced at creating safe, warm, child-friendly environments — this isn't a competitive show, and there's no drama or pressure involved.
Most importantly: applying doesn't commit you to anything. You can express an interest, have a conversation, and step back at any point if it doesn't feel right. No pressure, ever.
Why I'm sharing this with you
I only share things I genuinely feel could be meaningful for our community. When the team at Five Mile Films reached out, I could see straight away that this wasn't just a casting call — it's a project rooted in understanding and supporting children, made by people who care about doing it well.
The Dog House has always been television made with heart. I have every reason to believe this series will be the same.
If you think your child could benefit from this — or if you're simply curious — I'd encourage you to apply. The worst that can happen is nothing. The best? Your child makes a friend they'll remember forever.
Applications are open now. It takes just a few minutes and there's no obligation to take part.
Apply at bemyfriend.tv →Filming takes place July–August 2026. Children must be aged 5–8. UK families only. Please visit bemyfriend.tv for full details and to apply.