Concerns over children in Staffordshire and Cheshire "not ready" to start primary school

As families across Staffordshire and Cheshire receive news of their child's primary school placement, alarming figures reveal that many children are starting without the essential or key skills they should have.

For the Reception intake in 2025, two in five children in the West Midlands, including Staffordshire, and over a third in the North West, including Cheshire, were not ready for school. These children needed support in areas such as using the toilet independently and communicating their needs.

Primary school teachers reported losing 2.4 hours of education daily—equivalent to a full school day weekly—assisting children with these foundational skills.

In response, MC Grammar, an award-winning teacher turned rapper, has launched a song titled “Steps for School.” The track aims to equip children with confidence in daily routines and make learning these skills fun. Parents are encouraged to utilise practical tools like this at home to boost their child's readiness for school.

The initiative is part of the Government’s Best Start in Life programme, which strives for 75% of children to meet key developmental milestones by 2028. This effort directs families to resources for everyday activities that help prepare children for school.

As the challenge continues, parents in Staffordshire and Cheshire are keenly watching this campaign and its resources to better prepare their children for upcoming Reception years.

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