The BBC has announced that the acclaimed school drama, Waterloo Road, will return to screens on Tuesday, 10 September. All episodes of the forthcoming series will be available on BBC iPlayer from 6am, with the first episode airing on BBC One at 9pm.
The new series of Waterloo Road marks the fourth instalment since its return to television in 2023. Set against the backdrop of a new academy status and a renovated school building, significant changes are afoot. Jason Manford joins the cast as the new headteacher, Steve Savage, a charismatic leader determined to achieve impressive results through any means necessary.
Alongside Manford, the series will welcome several new characters. Saira Choudhry will portray Nisha Chandra, a charismatic Maths teacher willing to bend the rules. Olly Rhodes is cast as Billy Savage, the headteacher’s intelligent and charming son, while Nathan Wood will play Boz Osbourne, a street-smart individual with a turbulent history. Matthew Khan takes on the role of Jared Jones, known for his charm and wit, and Danny Murphy as Luca Smith, a bright student with a strong sense of self who is also deaf.
New characters also include Sonya Nisa and Miya Ocego, portraying Aleena Quereshi and Lois Taylor-Brown, respectively. Both characters are part of Stace Neville’s group, with Aleena prioritising friendship over academics and Lois showing fierce loyalty to her friends. Their dynamic presence will undoubtedly add to the drama’s intensity.
The series will continue to explore contemporary issues affecting teenagers, families, and school staff, maintaining its hallmark blend of sharp writing, warmth, and wit. Last week, it was confirmed that Waterloo Road has been recommissioned for two additional series, ensuring new episodes will air until at least 2026, bringing the total number of episodes in the new era to 54.
Angela Griffin returns to direct the new series, alongside other directors John Maidens, Piotr Szkopiak, and Robin Sheppard. The writing team includes Andrea Dewsbury, Charlie Swinbourne, Jayshree Patel, Katie Douglas, Kellie Smith, Liz Lewin, Neil Jones, Natalie Mitchell, and Paul Mousley. The production is set and made in Greater Manchester, produced by the award-winning Wall to Wall in collaboration with Rope Ladder Fiction. Key producers include Lindsay Williams, Adam Leatherland, and Nasreen Ahmed, with executive producers Cameron Roach, Leanne Klein, Gaynor Holmes, and Jo McClellan.
With its engaging storylines and dynamic new characters, the return of Waterloo Road promises to captivate viewers once again. The recommissioning of additional series ensures that the drama will continue to address vital real-life issues, securing its place as a staple in contemporary television.