Britain's Got Talent judge and children's author David Walliams records video to praise 'fantastic kids' at Chesterfield school

The Britain’s Got Talent judge was approached by a parent at New Whittington Primary School, Kate Bodell, who was ‘shocked’ when she received a video in response.

Mum-of-four Kate, who is also a parent governor, said she was inspired to get in touch with David by children who made a video to say thank you to staff during a previous lockdown.

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"At the beginning of this lockdown I thought it would be nice for them to be thanked too,” Kate said.

"Who would be better than an author they all admire?

“I wrote a letter to Mr Walliams telling him about all the hard work the children in school and at home are doing. I honestly didn’t think I would get a response!”

In the video, David, accompanied by his dog Bert, says: “Your teachers have told me you are all doing fantastic work. I know it’s not easy in lockdown and studying from home, but your teachers say you have all been doing absolutely brilliantly.”

He then jokes that he finds that ‘very difficult to believe’, before signing off by calling them ‘fantastic kids’ and urging them to keep up their efforts.

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“I was sat with my children helping with their home learning and an email popped up with the subject ‘message from David Walliams’,” Kate said.

"I was so shocked! I watched it a few times just to get over it and sent it straight to headteacher Emma Tooley!”

Kate and Emma say the video was a boost for children during the current lockdown.

"It was definitely a boost we all needed and I cannot thank David and his cute dog Bert enough,” Kate said.

"The children are missing school, they are missing their friends, so I am so pleased this has put a smile on their faces.

“Each and every child is working so hard, whether that is at home or in school. The staff have been such amazing support.

"It not just the staff and children, the parents and carers definitely deserve a lot of praise. Everyone is doing New Whittington proud and we are so lucky to be a part of such a wonderful school.”

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.