BBC fans have raved that a new school drama is ‘the best in decades’ – and it’s perfect for Adolescence fans who have finished the Netflix hit already.

CBBC programme Crongton, which is based on author Alex Wheatle’s series of his best-selling books, hit BBC Three on Monday. 

The drama, which is written by comedian Archie Maddocks, follows the life of Lemar ‘Liccle Bit’ Jackson (played by Samson Agboola). 

The show’s media pack explains: ‘The show chronicles the lives and journeys of a group of young people living in a thriving, multicultural community in a fictional urban housing estate, as they navigate the complexities of social politics, peer pressure and idenтιтy while trying to forge a place for themselves within a world full of possibility and littered with danger.’

Although only one episode of the 10-part series has dropped, it has received very positive reviews – and have mentioned how important it is to watch since Adolescence dropped on Netflix on March 13.  

It hasn’t been out long enough for people to give their views on critic site Rotten Tomatoes and IMBD, but plenty of critics have praised the show.

BBC fans have raved that a new school drama is ‘the best in decades’ – and it’s perfect for Adolescence fans who have finished the Netflix hit already 

Adolescence follows the story of a young boy called Eddie Miller (Owen Cooper, pictured above) who is accused of murdering his female classmate 

The Telegraph journalist Claire Allfree wrote: ‘If Netflix’s Adolescence is essential watching for parents, then Crongton is a pretty good equivalent for their children.’

Meanwhile The Guardian’s Robyn Vinter said: ‘The 10-part series, the first episodes of which air this evening, follows Lemar “Liccle Bit” Jackson (Samson Agboola), a child who, as adults would recognise, is being groomed into joining a gang. 

‘But this is nothing like Adolescence, the Netflix drama that has prompted endless debate about society and toxic masculinity. This is a kids’ TV programme. Adults are not invited.’ 

Meanwhile Kidzcoolit added: ‘So fresh and brilliantly informative for both Kidz and parents in the same way Grange Hill and Biker Grove entertained as well as educated in a subtle and sensitive way. 

‘Top Boy for Kidz – this show is genius. Everyone should be watching!!!!’

Adolescence follows the story of a young boy called Eddie Miller (Owen Cooper) who is accused of murdering his female classmate. 

CBBC programme Crongton, which is based on author Alex Wheatle’s series of his best-selling books, hit BBC Three on Monday 

Read More Coronation Street fans floored to discover Tina O’Brien’s connection to Adolescence’s Owen Cooper

And it has successfully brought misogyny among young boys to light. 

The cast of Crongton has given a number of underrepresented actors a chance in the industry. 

Samson Agboola plays Lemar ‘Liccle Bit’ Jackson, Nielle Springer has taken on the role of Venetia King, Noah Cox is Mckay Tambo, Seyi Andes-Pelumi plays Jonah ‘Rapid’ Hani, Safia Hamad has taken on the role of Saira Alzuhur, Sophie Spatariu is  Juniper Petrescu and Bobby North plays ‘Boy from the Hills’. 

The likes of Seraphina Beh, Bunmi Osadolor, Savannah Steyn are also in the show.

Kelle Bryan, Sutara Gayle,  Toussaint Meghie, Eddie Kadi, Michelle de Swarte and Munya Chawawa also make appearances. 

Before taking on the role of Liccle Bit, Samson opened up about his favourite thing about his alter-ego. 

He said: ‘My favourite thing about playing Liccle Bit was the set – I loved his bedroom it was so cool. 

‘I also loved exploring a different culture and tasting all of the delicious food I got to try as part of the show.’

He described his character as: ‘Funny, creative and a little weird! In the best way possible.’

And explained what he wants fans to think of his character’s ‘journey’. 

Samson explained: ‘Well, the first thing I hope they take away is not to deal with gangsters!

‘Another thing that is really important is friendship and always trust that no matter what you’re going through.

‘Your friends will always help you, along with your parents who will also be there for support.’

Watch Crongton on BBC Three and iPlayer.