One of Australia’s most loved children’s programs is stepping off the screen and into the museum, with ACMI and the ABC celebrating 60 years of Play School through a free, hands-on exhibition designed especially for little learners.
Premiering at ACMI from 4 March to 12 July 2026, Play School: Come and Play! invites pre-schoolers and their grown-ups behind the scenes of the iconic show, revealing how an episode of Play School is made today. The Melbourne season will launch the exhibition before it tours nationally.
Created with children aged two to five at its heart, the exhibition transforms familiar Play School magic into an interactive play space. Young visitors can step into the shoes of a presenter, director or camera operator, explore the production office, peer through the famous windows, sing along to favourite songs and hear stories beneath the rocket clock. There will also be plenty of time to meet Big Ted, Little Ted, Jemima, Humpty and Kiya along the way.
ACMI Director and CEO Seb Chan said, “This magical and memorable exhibition allows families to step inside the iconic TV series we all know and love. Rather than a nostalgic look back, it’s a celebration of how an episode of Play School is made in 2026. As Australia’s national museum of screen culture, ACMI is uniquely placed to showcase this national treasure. Open wide, come inside, it’s Play School.”
ABC Director Screen Jen Collins added, “We’re absolutely thrilled to celebrate Play School’s 60th anniversary with this collaboration with ACMI. For generations, Play School has sparked imagination, inspired curiosity and created a sense of belonging for millions of Australian families – and its magic shows no signs of slowing down. This exhibition is a rare chance to step inside the creativity, craft and heart behind one of our most beloved programs.”
Alongside the exhibition, families can enjoy Play School Talks, a speaker series exploring play, learning and screen literacy, plus monthly ACMI Preschoolers sessions and an online family education kit. Exclusive 60th anniversary Play School merchandise will also be available through the ACMI Shop.
Play School: Come and Play! runs 4 March to 12 July 2026 at ACMI. Entry is free, with bookings opening in February 2026 via acmi.net.au.
