Overview
- The BBC school drama opened its 17th run tonight at 9pm, with all eight episodes released at once on BBC iPlayer.
- Denise Welch reprises Steph Haydock, reentering the staff room as a supply teacher after her original-run stint.
- Welch said executive producer Cameron Roach personally called to invite her back, noting writers’ excitement about reviving the character.
- She acknowledged that some of Steph’s previously un‑politically correct behavior would not return, indicating a modernized approach.
- Viewers on X celebrated the comeback, cheering an on-screen reunion with Jack Rimmer and declaring that “2026 has peaked already.”