I too remember seeing it on the telly at school. Roundabout lunchtime or early afternoon? All gathered together in the hall. Maybe I was aware it was a rerun, I don't remember.
Though i collected various stuff to do with it I very much have the impression that it was more amazing to adults than us kids. Kids take so many things for granted I think, because they have so little idea of the past I suppose. Earlier in the space prog, maybe couple of years before, I also remember a teacher pondering whether it was a great waste of money and effort. Lots of probs back down on earth in the states if course.