As we enter a new academic year, it seems there ischange on the horizon: a new government brings with it new hope and possibilities for arts education.
For those who have turned off their news notifications during the summer holidays: Labour claims it will pursue a ‘broader, richer, cutting edge curriculum’ with the launch of a review that could reprioritise arts in schools, led by education expert Becky Francis. Bridget Philipson, education secretary, said the curriculum and assessment reviewwould look towards a ‘renewed curriculum, built on a foundation of high and rising standards, greater access to cultural learning and crucial work and life skills.’
In arts education, we have been trained to look sceptically at such promises. Even so, with change afoot in other areas of governmental operations, perhaps some hope might be just what our subject needs. Such a move could put an end to the scores of children who are missing out on arts education, if implemented correctly and thoroughly.
For this issue, I visited a primary school in South London where a group of pupils were lucky enough not to desperately need this type of change. Here, Punchdrunk Enrichment has established an exciting immersive project, starting on a bus-turned-spaceship and filtering into all areas of the school from there. What struck me about this work wasn’t just the joy and passion shown by the students involved, but also how this translated into an openness to learn across the board; all stemming from some friendly cadets and their mysterious mission.
In addition to being alot of fun, there are many strategic points we can take fromthis work – some of which, I am assured, will be shown statistically in an upcoming report from the theatre group. Elsewhere in the magazine, we take a look at the legacy of Kneehigh Theatre Company, outline a dramatic story-based pedagogy and CPD from Chol Theatre, and take a look at DV8as a practitioner (complete with an exercise for your classroom).
As always, we cover the latest news, reviews and projects to keep you up-to-date on the latest happenings within the sector. In other news, as the co-chair of the Music and Drama Education Awards I am thrilled to announce that we are finalising the 2025 judging panel imminently. I implore you to havea browse at the website and nominate any teacher, project, school department or company that you think is deserving of one of these awards. Praising the amazing work that goes onbehind the scenes in performing arts education, the ceremony is not to be missed! Find out more at musicdramaedawards.com.
So, I wish you well as you enter a new academic year. This is a really exciting time, whilealso being one of adjustment. Know that amid this period of change, Drama & Theatre will continue to be a cornerstone for you to lean on and trust, as we keep you up-to-date withsector news and the latest resources for your practice. And if there is anything else you want to see in these pages, do get in touch at drama.theatre@markallengroup.com!