Seven Up / 7 Plus Seven Season 1 Episode 1 Seven Up

The show Seven Up is a documentary series that follows the lives of fourteen British children from diverse backgrounds as they grow and develop from age seven and onwards. The first episode, named Seven Up, starts with an introduction to the children and their respective lives. The show's creators wanted to examine the impact of social background and upbringing on a child's future success and how our lives are shaped by the choices we make.

In the first episode, the producers interview all fourteen children, asking them about their likes, dislikes, and their aspirations for the future. The children come from different social backgrounds, ranging from lower-middle class to working-class families. The interviews showed that each child had different expectations from life. One child, Neil, expressed a desire to be an astronaut, while Paul dreamt of being a jockey, and Nicholas felt a calling to become a nuclear physicist. While still young, the children seemed confident in their dreams and desired career paths.

The interviews also showed a significant difference in the children's living conditions. Some grew up in comfortable homes with their own gardens, while others lived in small flats or council houses with little space. This discrepancy has led to discussions about how social class affects children's lives and opportunities. Something as simple as access to a private garden can have a significant impact on a child's development.

The show also highlights some socioeconomic differences in the children's families. For example, some children come from more educated families, while others come from families with limited education. The presence of both parents in the home also varies. While some have both parents present, others have only one parent, or they are raised by grandparents or guardians. The children's living conditions and parents' educational level brought up the question of whether they would have the same opportunities and benefits growing up.

Throughout Seven Up, the children are shown in different settings, including their schools, homes, and communities. Each child has a different level of involvement in their surroundings, with some more outgoing and active than others. The show highlights the variety of hobbies and interests that the children have, from reading and drawing to football and athletics.

Seven Up captures the innocence and wonder of childhood. The children are seen as carefree and hopeful, with big dreams and boundless ambitions. However, even at seven years old, the signs of social stratification are visible. The documentary raised some difficult questions about how much control we have over our lives and how much is predetermined by our backgrounds.

Seven Up is an engaging and thought-provoking series that has generated a lot of interest in the UK and around the world. The show's unique approach, following the same group of children every seven years, has provided unparalleled insight into the human experience and the impact of societal factors on our lives. It is fascinating to see how the children have changed and developed over the years. Viewers can't help but feel invested in each child's story and hope for their success. Seven Up is a must-watch for anyone interested in social issues and human development.