Channel 5 Alum Sets Up Kids’ Production Company

LONDON: Ivy House Productions, a new independent kids’ production company, is being launched by Jessica Symons, former head of children’s at Channel 5.

Symons will serve as managing director of London-based Ivy House Productions. She is currently establishing the company’s development portfolio, which already includes a number of live-action, puppet and animated programs for preschoolers and tweens. Among the shows in development is a drama series in collaboration with Nick Wilson and Malou Bonicos.

While at Channel 5, Symons oversaw the Milkshake! preschool block. Over her ten years at the network, she developed, commissioned and acquired hundreds of hours of children’s programming. She also produced, wrote and directed many in-house shows, and was responsible for multiple commercial spin-offs.

Symons remarked: “During my time at Channel 5, as well as commissioning and acquiring shows, I had a hands-on role in the production of all our in-house content and continuity output. Starting my own production company has been a long-held dream and I am really excited to be entering an exciting new chapter in my career.”