Families in Rochdale are being encouraged to help children prepare for school through a new campaign focused on early development and confidence. The initiative targets children due to start reception this September.
Rochdale Borough Council has launched the Get ready with Teddy campaign to support children as they prepare to begin primary school. The initiative aims to ensure pupils develop key skills needed for a positive start, including independence, communication and confidence in group settings.
The campaign builds on existing work in early years settings and extends support to families whose children are not currently attending nursery or pre school. Each child starting reception will receive a teddy bear to support them through their transition into school.
An official launch event called Teddy Saturday will take place on Saturday 25 April between 9.30am and 12.30pm at selected Best Start Family Hubs. Families attending can take part in themed activities including a picnic, baking and outdoor play, while also meeting other parents and accessing advice from early years services.
A wider programme of activities will begin on Monday 27 April across the borough’s family hubs. These sessions are designed to support children’s development in areas such as building relationships, communication skills, physical development and establishing healthy routines.
Sharon Hubber, director for children’s services at Rochdale Borough Council, said starting school is a significant step for families and added that the campaign is designed to help every child feel ready. She said: “Starting school is a huge milestone for our children and their families, and we want every child in our borough to begin that journey feeling confident, supported and ready to thrive.
“By giving families simple, practical tools to help build their independence, communication and social skills, we can ensure every child has the very best start.”
The campaign also aims to improve the borough’s good level of development results, which measure whether children meet expected learning goals by the end of reception. Current figures show 61 per cent of children in Rochdale achieve this level, compared with a national average of 68 per cent.
Rachael Bentham, principal at Norden Primary Academy, said strong links between families and schools are key to helping children succeed. She said: “School readiness is not about children knowing everything before they arrive, it’s about helping them feel confident, curious, and prepared for the exciting journey ahead.
“Working together, we can create a smooth and joyful start to school, helping every child feel ready, valued, and excited for the journey ahead.”
Further information about the programme and event locations is available through the council’s website.
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