Local primary school children are getting a dramatic start in their education thanks to a community project launched by the New Vic. Devised in response to feedback from local teachers, Local Links aims to bring drama back into classrooms through a series of workshops specially designed for Newcastle-under-Lyme primary schools.

The project has been developed by the theatre’s innovative Education team following talks with local teachers, who are keen to include more drama in primary education to aid the teaching of literacy.

Said New Vic Education Theatre Practitioner and Project Leader Sarah Richardson “The project started originally because we wanted to strengthen our links with local schools and really put the theatre at the heart of its community. So we kick-started a consortium with local primary school teachers to give them a chance to hear what we’re up to and to discuss issues in drama.”

“Currently, there is no drama on the curriculum at primary level. The teachers we spoke to felt that drama and theatre were key areas that could help children with literacy in the curriculum, so we have geared our workshops specifically towards that.”

Through Local Links, the Education team is bringing an ambitious programme to local children and teachers including training and networking opportunities for teaching staff, lighting and sound workshops, as well as visits to Newcastle’s schools by professional actors and directors.

Continues Sarah: “We’re working with many new schools and more local teachers are joining the consortium. We’re looking forward to local children feeling that the New Vic is a place for them and using drama to develop skills, not just for the classroom, but socially too.”

For more information on other education projects, please contact Lynn Parry on 01782 717954 ext 356.