Introduction
For international students, studying abroad is usually filled with opportunities to explore new cultures, make friends from around the world, and experience university life to the fullest. But when the COVID-19 pandemic struck, many found themselves confined indoors, far away from family, coping with isolation in small dorm rooms or apartments. Quarantine and lockdowns were especially tough for those in foreign countries, dealing with uncertainty, homesickness, and academic pressure.
In times like these, one activity became a lifesaver: watching documentaries. Not just any documentaries, but BBC documentaries, which are world-famous for their breathtaking cinematography, deeply researched storytelling, and educational value. For decades, the BBC has been the gold standard in broadcasting, producing award-winning series that are not only entertaining but also intellectually stimulating.
Why are they particularly valuable for international students? Because BBC documentaries offer more than just “something to watch.” They help students:
- Learn English naturally by listening to authentic British narration.
- Understand global issues such as climate change, culture, and history.
- Stay mentally active during quarantine through educational content.
- Bond with family or roommates when watched together.
Whether you’re an undergraduate adjusting to life abroad, a postgraduate spending long hours in research, or even a student living with family, these documentaries provide a healthy way to spend your free time. And the best part? Many of them are suitable for both adults and children, making them family-friendly educational resources.
In this article, we’ll explore the best BBC documentaries for international students in quarantine. We’ll explain why they’re highly rated, how they benefit both adults and children, and where you can watch them. By the end, you’ll have a long list of must-watch shows that will turn your quarantine into a global classroom.
The Value of Documentaries for International Students
Before jumping into the list, let’s understand why documentaries, especially BBC’s, are such powerful tools for international students.
1. Improving English Skills
Documentaries narrated by figures like Sir David Attenborough are not just stories—they are language lessons. The narration uses clear, precise English, exposing students to:
- Accents (British, regional, and even global).
- Academic vocabulary (scientific, historical, and cultural terms).
- Listening comprehension in natural contexts.
Unlike classroom material, documentaries provide authentic listening practice. Watching them with subtitles can improve both listening and reading skills simultaneously.
2. Understanding Culture and History
For international students, adapting to a new culture can be overwhelming. BBC documentaries often dive deep into the history, art, and traditions of societies, offering context that textbooks miss. For example, watching Civilisations helps students understand the Western cultural heritage they encounter daily, while The Story of China builds appreciation for one of the world’s oldest civilizations.
3. Staying Mentally Active in Quarantine
Binge-watching random shows might kill boredom but rarely stimulates the mind. Documentaries, on the other hand, feed curiosity. They make you think, question, and connect dots across disciplines. A biology student might find inspiration in Blue Planet, while a politics major could gain insights from The Rise of the Nazis.
4. Family-Friendly Learning
BBC excels at creating content that appeals to multiple age groups. Planet Earth II, for instance, is equally engaging for adults fascinated by wildlife and children amazed by exotic animals. This makes documentaries a perfect quarantine activity for families with kids.
Highly Rated BBC Documentaries for Adults (Deep Learning & Culture)
Let’s begin with documentaries ideal for adults—though many are suitable for older teens as well. These are series that go deep into science, history, and human society.
1. Planet Earth I & II
- Why It’s Famous: Widely considered the crown jewel of BBC documentaries, Planet Earth (2006) and Planet Earth II (2016) showcase our planet like never before. Narrated by Sir David Attenborough, these series use groundbreaking cinematography to capture deserts, mountains, jungles, and cities.
- Why It’s Great for Students:
- Enhances knowledge of ecosystems, geography, and biology.
- Exposes viewers to environmental issues like climate change and deforestation.
- Rich academic vocabulary for language learners.
- Why It’s Family-Friendly: The visuals are so spectacular that even young children will be captivated. Parents and students alike can marvel at snow leopards in the Himalayas or iguanas escaping snakes on the Galápagos Islands.
- Where to Watch: Available on BBC iPlayer (UK), Netflix, Amazon Prime, and BBC Earth channel on YouTube.
2. Blue Planet I & II
- Why It’s Famous: These series dive deep into the oceans, revealing creatures and habitats most humans will never see in their lifetime. From coral reefs to the darkest depths, Blue Planet uncovers the mysteries of marine life.
- Why It’s Great for Students:
- Teaches about biodiversity, ecosystems, and marine conservation.
- A great companion for biology, environmental science, or sustainability students.
- Encourages environmental awareness and responsibility.
- Why It’s Family-Friendly: Children are fascinated by dolphins, whales, and colorful reef fish. Adults will appreciate the deeper lessons on pollution and overfishing.
- Where to Watch: BBC iPlayer, Netflix, Amazon Prime, and BBC Earth YouTube channel.
3. Civilisations (2018)
- Why It’s Famous: This ambitious documentary explores the history of human creativity and art, from ancient cave paintings to modern masterpieces. It’s essentially a crash course in global cultural history.
- Why It’s Great for Students:
- Offers insights into art history, anthropology, and world civilizations.
- Helps international students appreciate cultural differences.
- Provides context for museums, literature, and architecture encountered abroad.
- Why It’s Family-Friendly: While more suited for teens and adults, younger children may still enjoy the visuals of ancient ruins and artifacts.
- Where to Watch: BBC iPlayer, PBS (in the U.S.), and Amazon Prime.
4. The Story of China (2016)
- Why It’s Famous: Presented by historian Michael Wood, this series explores China’s 4,000-year-old civilization through its dynasties, philosophies, and cultural achievements.
- Why It’s Great for Students:
- Perfect for international students wanting to understand China, a global superpower.
- Connects history with modern society.
- Useful for those studying history, politics, or Asian studies.
- Why It’s Family-Friendly: Adults will love the depth, while children may be drawn to Chinese festivals, traditions, and landmarks.
- Where to Watch: BBC iPlayer and Amazon Prime.
5. Horizon Series
- Why It’s Famous: BBC’s Horizon is a long-running science documentary program covering topics from space exploration to medicine and AI. Each episode focuses on one big scientific question.
- Why It’s Great for Students:
- Keeps you updated on cutting-edge science and technology.
- Helps develop critical thinking and scientific literacy.
- Useful for STEM students needing to stay inspired.
- Why It’s Family-Friendly: Best for adults and older teens, though certain episodes (like space exploration) can also engage younger audiences.
- Where to Watch: BBC iPlayer and YouTube (select episodes).
6. The Secret Life of Chaos (2010)
- Why It’s Famous: This one-hour special explores the idea of order and chaos in science, diving into physics, mathematics, and philosophy.
- Why It’s Great for Students:
- Encourages critical thinking about complex scientific concepts.
- Ideal for physics, math, or philosophy majors.
- Why It’s Family-Friendly: More suitable for adults, but science-loving teens will find it fascinating.
- Where to Watch: BBC iPlayer, YouTube, and educational streaming platforms.
