A NEW bootcamp for toddlers’ teachers is being set up in a bid to improve school standards.

Schools across Tendring were criticised by councillors two years ago following low test scores.

Secondary school heads said pupils arriving in Year Seven were “significantly below average” and children were already behind when they joined primary school reception classes.

It is hoped the new centre will ensure pupils are up to standard when starting primary school.

The Tendring School Readiness Project has been set up to help teachers and those working with youngsters, such as in children’s centres.

New ‘best practice rooms’ have been created at the Tendring Skills Campus, at the former Bishops Park School site, in Jaywick Lane, to help those working with two-year-olds.

Project manager Liz Norton said: “Research shows us that the years between birth and five have a major impact on children’s life chances.”The district’s youngsters do less well at school than those in other parts of the county."

The new facility is designed to support parents and teachers to ensure children are ready to start school.

The project involves Tendring Education Trust, Tendring Council and Essex Early Years and Childcare.

Tendring Education Trust chairman John Clay said it was a unique scheme.

“It will have a significant effect in making sure four-year-olds are ready to start reception,” he said.

“In the longer term this will feed through primary and secondary education.”