Big Cat Story Talk is a research-informed language programme that places books at the heart of every session. Using a series of lively wordless picture books, the programme builds vocabulary, improves language and communication and increases social and emotional wellbeing through quality interactions and rich child-led book talk.

Farid and his family have recently moved house, and today is his first day at his new school. Will he be able to overcome his nerves and find a way to fit in?

Themes: new experiences, friendships, school day, emotions, sport, differences

The Big Cat Story Talk programme includes online training, videos and resources to assist with classroom implementation, delivery and engagement.

Frances studied archeology, anthropology and classics at Cambridge, and then worked as a journalist all over the world. Eventually she returned to her childhood love of writing stories, especially picture books which she describes as being, "Like poetry: born to be read aloud. To be tasted, chewed, savoured, and finally swallowed with a satisfying ‘Ah!' – leaving just enough room, of course, for sneaky second helpings!" Frances lives in Bedfordshire with her husband and their cats. Jen Khatun is an illustrator of Bangladeshi/Indian heritage, who grew up in the beautiful city of Winchester and has had the delight of working with many publishing houses. Inspired by the natural surroundings, her childhood favourite stories and the magical moments found in everyday life, Jen loves to weave colourful illustrations. She now lives by the coast of East Sussex, and you will often find her by the sea with her fiancé and their dog Juno, exploring away in their new adventure!