Primary School Workshops

Drama as a tool for learning

The workshops are designed for primary schools in Ireland and use process drama as a tool for learning and development, emphasising the learning that happens during the creative process rather than just performance. They align with key education frameworks and cover a variety of topics, from building fundamental acting skills to exploring history and fostering confidence.

The Workshops

Select a Workshop below for more info.

Acting for Fun

Introduction to Theatre Skills

History to Life

Exploring History Through Drama

Take a Leap

Building Confidence & Wellbeing

Anything is Possible

Creative Learning Through Drama

From Page to Stage

Bringing Scripts to Life

Creating Characters

Devising Original Theatre

Hear Me

Youth Voice in Decision Making

Drama Through Stimuli

Find Creativity in Unexpected Places

Transitions

Empowering 6th Class for Success

Toolkit

Core Skills in Drama

Improvisation

Spontaneous Storytelling

How these Workshops connect with your School

Process Drama is an excellent way to give students a voice. Students can be involved in decision-making by

  • co- creating content using a child led approach
  • providing feedback sharing their thoughts and feelings about the activities
  • shaping the learning environment encouraging student expression and problem-solving

The workshops empower students to take ownership of their learning and contribute to the classroom and school community.

Drama is part of the Arts Education curriculum in Irish primary schools, and the workshops directly link to the curriculum’s three main strand units:

  • Exploring and making drama
  • Reflecting on drama
  • Co-operating and communicating in making drama

Primary School Key Competencies

Primary

The workshops foster creativity by encouraging imaginative thinking and problem-solving through drama activities. This aligns with the curriculum’s emphasis on creativity as a core competency.

Several workshops are specifically designed to improve student wellbeing. Drama can positively impact areas like self-esteem, empathy, and communication skills. It provides a safe space for students to relieve stress and build a sense of community.

Integrating drama into a whole-school plan ensures that the workshops’ benefits are embedded across the curriculum and school community.

The workshops and the integration of drama into the curriculum can provide evidence for a school’s School Self-Evaluation (SSE) process. The impact of drama on student learning outcomes and well-being can be a key part of this evaluation. For instance, a school could use the workshops to gather evidence on how they are promoting student wellbeing, which is a recognised area of focus for SSE.