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The Duchess of Cambridge is set to address schoolchildren across the nation in an online assembly on Thursday, with a message focused on mental wellbeing and kindness.

Kate will deliver her words of support to the Oak National Academy – an online classroom providing video lessons and free resources to parents and teachers.

In the pre-recorded message, the duchess will say: “Talking to someone, whether it’s a friend, family member or teacher, is something you can do to make yourself feel that little bit better.

“And you can also play your part in helping others to feel better too, whether offering a friendly ear or helping someone in need.

“Small acts of kindness can go such a long way. But, as we help others, we mustn’t forget to nurture ourselves, by taking the time to focus on the things that make us feel happy too.”

The online classroom was created in response to the coronavirus lockdown and supports teachers educating their pupils remotely. Since its launch, it has delivered more than 12 million lessons to children and young people.

The Oak National Academy is part of the Reach Foundation, a charitable organisation founded by philanthropists Mark and Wendy Wilson to help children in need. The online resource describes itself as a community of school leaders, teachers and supporting team members.

Every Thursday morning it hosts assemblies for students across the UK, allowing them to experience the normal routine of a school environment.

Oak National Academy principal Matt Hood said: “We’re thrilled that the Duchess of Cambridge was able to lead this week’s assembly on acts of kindness. Being kind and considerate is a vital lesson for children at any time, but especially so in the current pandemic.

“We must encourage young people to talk about their feelings and to know that it’s normal to feel a bit anxious or upset right now.”