As the summer holidays come to an end, it’s time to sharpen those pencils, pack those bags and get ready for a brand-new term on CBeebies and CBBC. September is packed with stories about new beginnings, learning new skills and making new friends, with a line-up designed to capture the excitement of heading back to school.

On CBeebies, younger viewers can join familiar faces as they discover, learn and grow. From the classroom fun of Dodge’s Pup School and the confidence-building adventures of Waffle’s After School Club to number-filled problem-solving with the Numberblocks, there’s plenty to help little ones embrace the new term. I Can Grow It, Rafi the Wishing Wizard and Zog also bring plenty of curiosity, creativity and life lessons along the way.

Over on CBBC, school and teamwork are at the heart of the action. Pablo: Next Level follows Pablo as he starts school, while Andy and the Band: Rock Star School delivers a musical twist on classroom life. Alongside the return of Blue Peter, viewers can also enjoy the science-fuelled fun of Horrible Science: Big Bang Prom, plus inspiring stories of determination and teamwork in The Next Step: Cheer, Deadly 60 and The Football Academy.

To support families preparing for one of childhood’s biggest milestones, CBeebies Parenting’s Get Ready for School campaign is also offering expert advice, activities and specially selected content on BBC iPlayer, helping children build confidence, independence and excitement ahead of their first day. Whether you’re starting school for the first time or heading into a new year, there’s something for everyone this September on CBeebies and CBBC.

CBeebies Parenting’s Get Ready For School campaign

CBeebies Parenting is helping families navigate one of childhood’s biggest milestones with its Get Ready for School campaign, bringing together trusted expert advice, practical support and much-loved CBeebies characters.

Families can also find more support through the CBeebies Parenting Skills for Starting School collection.

On BBC iPlayer, families can also enjoy a selection of songs, stories, games and advice together as the first day gets closer, including:

More programmes, activities and advice are available in the CBeebies Parenting Starting School collection.