A NEW nursery class has begun at a Rochford primary school to help children settle in.

Watermans Primary School, in The Boulevard, Rochford, has successfully set up a class for pre-school children from the age of three.

It is designed to get youngsters used to the school environment before they join the reception class.

Teacher Joanne Fincher said: "Having the new nursery on site has been a real asset to the school. It has enabled us as staff to form relationships with pupils and parents and ready the pupils for our school community.

“The new pupils have settled really well and are enjoying their new learning environment and making new friends. The pupils are very quickly learning our school routines and expectations and we believe this will really aid them when they join our reception class in September."

Emma Nunn, early years compliance manager, said sessions are available from the September after a child's third birthday.

She added: “As with Stambridge Primary School, Waterman also provides quality education by qualified teaching staff.

“After their nursery year, children are well prepared for Reception.

“With the nursery class being part of the school, high quality resources are available to the children.”