All the school’s a stage – Dr Ava Hunt goes deep into why drama is so important for children, especially at key times in their lives

The move from primary to secondary school is a massive stepping stone for a child. Theatre and drama play a key role in easing that transition, argues Dr Ava Hunt

The transition from primary to secondary school is a significant milestone in a child’s educational journey. It’s a period that often brings a mixture of excitement and anxiety as children face new environments, different routines, and increased academic pressure. Amidst these changes, theatre and drama can play a crucial role in supporting children’s wellbeing… providing them with tools to navigate this transition with confidence and resilience.

Why? Because theatre and drama activities offer a unique platform for self-expression, allowing children to explore different facets of their personality in a safe and supportive environment. Through role-playing and improvisation, children can experiment with various scenarios and responses, which helps them to gain a deeper understanding of their own emotions and reactions. This process increases self-awareness and builds self-esteem, as children receive positive reinforcement for their creative efforts.

Participating in drama encourages children to step out of their comfort zones and take on new challenges. The skills acquired in drama—such as public speaking, body language, and vocal projection—are invaluable for children’s overall development and can be particularly beneficial as they adapt to the larger and more demanding environment of secondary school.

Moreover, the process of participating in drama increases a sense of community and belonging – helping children to form new friendships and strengthen existing ones.  In a drama setting, children learn to appreciate different perspectives and develop empathy by stepping into the shoes of various characters. This ability to understand and relate to others’ experiences is crucial for developing their emotional awareness, gaining self-confidence, building meaningful relationships and navigating the social dynamics of secondary school.   

Read the full article here.

To book “Way Too Cool” performances and Wellbeing & Transition Drama Workshops this June email: info@avahunt.co.uk