TV hardman Danny Dyer – who previously discovered he is related to William the Conqueror and Edward III – is among a host of stars helping to teach the nation’s children during the COVID-19 crisis.

The EastEnders actor will provide a history class for five to seven-year-olds on Henry VIII, the BBC said, as it revealed further details of its virtual learning programme which has now gone live.

Children will be offered lessons held by footballer Sergio Aguero, Doctor Who star Jodie Whittaker and Professor Brian Cox.

Aguero will help youngsters learn to count in Spanish, and Professor Cox is due to teach science topics such as force, the solar system and gravity.

Former shadow chancellor and Strictly Come Dancing star Ed Balls has been recruited to deliver a maths class for 11 to 14-year-olds.

And Sir David Attenborough will look at geography topics such as oceans and mapping the world.

Along with more than 200 teachers, other celebrities taking part include singers Liam Payne and Mabel, as well as TV presenter Anita Rani and Strictly Come Dancing professional Oti Mabuse.

Alice Webb, director of BBC Children’s & Education said: “It’s vital that every child is able to continue learning – and the lessons we’re putting on will make sure they have fun at the same time.”

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The learning programme includes BBC Bitesize Daily, airing on BBC iPlayer and the BBC red button, which will feature six 20-minute programmes each day, aimed at different age groups.

There will also be a maths and English lesson every day for different age groups, daily education podcasts and programmes on BBC Four on weekday evenings to support GCSE and A-level courses.