She said the classes gave children a taste of the school day, helping them build up the necessary routine and skills for school life.
The sessions were organised in collaboration with the Manchester SEND Early Development Inclusion team to ensure the classes were suitable for all school starters.
“We worked together to make sure the workshops were inclusive and that children with disabilities and neurodivergence could access the same education as every other child,” Desjardins said.
“Honestly I feel like crying when I think of these children.
“Because it was the most rewarding thing for them to go from having never experienced any kind of routine setting to being excited to come and sit down, sing and have a snack that they’ve never eaten before.
“All these little things that don’t seem like a lot are massive.”
Jenni Cawsey, a health visitor in Wythenshawe, said there were resources available to help prepare children for school – and called on parents to do all they can to help.
“It’s just getting the information out there so parents know it’s available,” she said.
“There’s several different areas, communication, listening, attention, toilet training, being able to sit still.
“These are little skills that we want parents to start supporting their children with at home so that they’re ready to thrive at school.”