As hundreds of thousands of families across England receive their child’s primary school place today, award-winning teacher turned rapper MC Grammar is striking a chord with parents through a new song providing a fun, practical way to help prepare their child to start Reception.
Research recently revealed that over a third (37%) of children start school without the basic skills they need for the classroom1. Based on this year’s intake, around 200,000 out of the 600,000 children expected to start school may be in the same position.
This trend is already having an impact. Primary school teachers report losing 2.4 hours of teaching time each day1 – a full school day per week – supporting children with basic skills such as using the toilet, communication and independence.
The new ‘Steps for School’ song sees MC Grammar rapping with his mini 4-year-old counterpart ‘Little G’ to bring everyday skills – like using the toilet, getting dressed, sharing, following simple instructions, and asking for help – to life in a fun, memorable way.
Practising these skills at home supports children’s development, helps them build confidence and independence at their own pace and sets them up to thrive at school and beyond. Developed by Best Start in Life from the recognised ‘Starting Reception’ guidance, the song aims to boost the number of children who feel ready to start primary school this September and give families trusted support as they navigate the transition.
The track is launched as part of the Government’s Best Start in Life campaign, which feeds into the wider Opportunity Mission, aiming for 75% of children to have the essential skills they need to start school by 2028.
The campaign is part of a wider government package launched today to support families as children take their first steps towards Reception. New guidance sets out what good transition looks like in practice – showing how stronger transitions are built when schools and nurseries work closely with families from Offer Day through to September, helping children feel settled and prepared to learn, particularly those with SEND.
This is supported by continued investment in early language support through the Nuffield Early Language Intervention (NELI) programme, giving children the support they need as they start Reception and helping them build the skills needed for school and for life.
Jacob Mitchell, aka MC Grammar, said “As a former teacher and a dad with children already at school – and one starting next year – I know how much practicing simple skills early can boost confidence when it’s time to start Reception. With our new ‘Steps for School’ song, we’re giving families a fun, memorable way to build those everyday skills that will help set children up for a smooth start in September.”
Lee Parkinson, primary school teacher, said “Preparation for school is about those small, meaningful interactions that begin at home. I’ve seen first-hand the difference these everyday routines can make alongside the care and learning children get in childcare and early years settings, giving them the reassurance they need to thrive. I always remind parents it’s never too early to start. Even families with 2–3-year-olds can build confidence and independence through everyday chatting, playing and reading.”
From everyday routines to fun family activities, discover ways to prepare your child for starting school at Best Start in Life.
