A Dudley borough teacher is starring in an online video to help September’s intake of new pupils get ready for starting school.

The video shows Alison Ward, headteacher at Netherton Park Nursery School reading the book for children. It contains lots of tips about how parents can support their child emotionally and practically as preparation for starting reception class in September.

The video is available on YouTube and parents are encouraged to share it with their children.

The ‘Little Chick Starts School’ book was developed through the Black Country Early Outcomes project, which was funded by the government following a successful bid by the four Black Country local authorities. The aim was to improve children’s school readiness across the region and a website was developed with many tips for parents of under 5s.

Dudley Council has developed the book further by creating an online version which parents and carers can read to children. Councillor Ruth Buttery, cabinet member for children and young people, said:

"Starting school is a big adventure for our younger residents but for some it can understandably be overwhelming. This is a lovely story, read by one of Dudley’s headteachers, which helps children understand what to expect on their first day of school.

"I’d urge parents of new school starters to take a few minutes to share this with their children and talk lots over the summer about all the fun and learning they will enjoy when they start school."

Alison Ward, headteacher at Netherton Park Nursery School, added:

"As a headteacher of a Nursery School, I know how important it is to support children and prepare them for their school journey and I can’t stress enough the importance of talking about school life at home ahead of children joining reception.

"When children start at their new school, staff will support them as they make the transition from a nursery or pre-school setting and help those who haven’t attended a similar setting before.

"It’s been a pleasure to be part of this video. I hope it helps children and gives them confidence as they start this exciting new chapter."

You can access the book to read with their child online by clicking here and to access more information and support, visit blackcountryearlyoutcomes.co.uk.