A day with UpFront Theatre Company and The Archbishop's School

We invited The Archbishop's School to a day with the UpFront Theatre. The organisation is an educational theatre company that works closely with the PSHE Association to create interactive plays and workshops which explore various PSHE topics. Audience members have the opportunity to ‘rewind’ and act out the scenes performed a different way, based on feedback. ‘In Harm’s Way’ addresses mental health issues and coping strategies. ‘The Awkward Chat’ allows students to explore healthy and unhealthy relationships, consent, responsibility and risk taking.  Actors created characters and scenes which were utterly convincing and engaged brilliantly with the students allowing them to see the consequences of risky behaviour in a safe learning environment.

Aims

To create a platform in order to explore some challenging but relevant scenarios, in a relatable and interactive way.

Background

This partnership came about through the East Kent Schools Together partnership and is planned as an annual event, part of the PSHE programme of all schools involved.

Resources

The Taylor Hall, our multi-use theatre, provides the perfect venue for performances. The theatre seats an audience of up to 500 people within the main hall and balcony. Specialist stage lighting and sound equipment helps to create a professional production. The stage dominates one wall, but the building is constructed so that performances can also take place in the round. 

Impact

Improved confidence, awareness and understanding of the issues involved.

Pupil Involvement

Pupils in years 9 -13

Frequency

This is an annual event which we hope more partner schools will be able to attend in the future.