Filming begins on two new series of Waterloo Road

Waterloo Road is known for tackling real-life topics affecting teenagers, families, and school staff

The hit BBC drama Waterloo Road has been recommissioned for a further two series.

Filmed and set in Greater Manchester, the show follows the fortunes of pupils and staff at a comprehensive school.

It is known for tackling real-life topics affecting teenagers, families, and school staff with "a mix of sharp writing, warmth and wit", the corporation said.

It said filming had already begun on the two new series, with the first episodes expected to air on BBC One and the iPlayer in the second half of 2025.

These episodes will be in addition to two upcoming eight-part series which have already been filmed and are set to air this September and early next year.

The series has thrived since becoming popular during the coronavirus lockdowns

The next series will feature the actor and comedian Jason Manford as Steve Savage, who becomes the new headteacher of the school, which the programme is named after.

The series returned to screens in January last year after becoming popular with viewers on BBC iPlayer during lockdown, proving especially popular with audiences under the age of 35.

Executive producer Cameron Roach said: "We're incredibly thrilled to be recommissioned for a further two seasons of the new era of Waterloo Road.

"This commitment by the BBC underlines the show's ability to not only be a compelling entertaining drama for a younger audience, but to also serve as a true talent incubator across the craft skills for a new generation of crew and cast."

The broadcaster said the new series are maintaining the production’s ongoing commitment to investing in creative talent in the north of England.

Additionally, Waterloo Road has welcomed more than 300 students from a range of schools and youth groups to participate in outreach events across the area, composed of interactive sessions to build their knowledge and skills for TV and film production.

Audiences can stream all existing episodes of Waterloo Road on BBC iPlayer.