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Re-thinking Theatre-in Education

RE-THINKING THEATRE IN EDUCATION

Theatre In Education (TiE) is a tried and test way of getting young people to engage with PSHE related topics – but is there more to it than a ‘bit of fun’ and what happens once the actors have packed up and gone home? We asked CragRats, the UK's largest provider of TiE to tell us more…
CragRats started working in TiE in 1989 and now delivers tours to thousands of schools every year for clients from; councils, LEA’s, and Aimhigher to blue chips in the private sector.

There is no doubt that theatrical scenarios are an exciting way of communicating PSHE messages but CragRats stress that there is a serious learning element too. CragRats TiE expert Lindsay Richards says: “Theatre acts as a springboard for discussing PSHE issues; generating real interest. We take that interest and build on it with interactive workshops, lesson plans, multimedia resources and online learning – it can become a complete package.”

The general picture seems to be that TiE is moving towards a more integrated approach that takes in all the latest developments. CragRats online learning expert, Claire Awty says: “Multimedia and online learning are effective ways of backing up and embedding the messages contained in the workshops and live performances. The idea is that we offer a comprehensive learning experience which appeals to all styles of learning.”

All this sounds great but very often funding is a barrier to creating a fully rounded experience for young people and often the reason why TiE opportunities are not fully exploited. According to CragRats it does not have to be this way. When asked about the future of TiE CragRats Lindsay Richards says: “We are seeing LEA’s, Councils, youth services, the private sector and schools coming together to work on projects. This is driven by a will to get the most out of their budgets, and in doing so they can produce a fully rounded and sustainable TiE package.”

To find out more contact Lindsay Richards at CragRats – 01484 686451 lindsay@cragrats.com www.cragrats.com

MINI CASE STUDY – DIAGEO
An example of where an integrated approach is producing very positive results is through CragRats work with premium drinks business Diageo. The company has a long standing commitment to leading on responsible drinking, but crucially takes a partnership approach to promoting the message. This is the fourth year CragRats have delivered Diageo's Responsible Drinking Education Programme. It is aimed at 11-14yr olds in secondary schools nationwide. Schools are offered a free performance, supported by interactive workshops, teaching resources and evaluation. The programme was developed through consultation with the government, media, NGOs, trade bodies, consumers and other stakeholders.

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