The countdown has started to the debut of Network Ten’s new family entertainment series The Great Australian Spelling Bee, hosted by Grant Denyer and Chrissie Swan.
The series produced by Shine Australia will see more than 50 of Australia’s brightest young spellers aged between eight and 13 compete in a series of word-related games and challenges.
In order to advance, each speller must display a combination of speed, skill and smarts to deconstruct words many have never heard of, let alone spelt.
Network Ten Chief Programming Officer, Beverley McGarvey, said: “The Great Australian Spelling Bee is edge-of-your seat entertainment that will leave viewers shaking their heads in amazement at the intellect and ingenuity of children.
“Australia routinely ranks among the lowest performing English-speaking countries in international literacy testing, and our report card is not improving.
“The Great Australian Spelling Bee will shine a light on the importance of literacy and inspire all Australians to develop a love of the English language. It will also be great entertainment. The spellers are wonderful. Grant and Chrissie are brilliant hosts. This show is going to have Australian families spellbound,” she said.