Pupils shine at ‘Play in a Day’ drama outreach event
90 Year Six pupils from Northwick Manor Primary School participated in RGS Worcester’s Play in a Day Drama Outreach event at the Performing Arts Centre (PAC). The rainforest-themed play, written by RGS Worcester, Director of Drama Mrs Jilly Witcomb, allowed pupils to develop creativity, confidence, and teamwork through workshops in acting, singing, and dance, led by RGS Drama staff. The day culminated in a vibrant performance for parents, showcasing the pupils’ progress and enthusiasm. This initiative highlights RGS Worcester’s commitment to Partnerships and Outreach, providing valuable opportunities for local pupils and exemplifying why the school was named Independent School of the Year for Educational Partnerships.
Aims
The aim of the 'Play in a Day' partnership was to develop creativity, confidence, and teamwork among local primary school pupils by providing them with a unique opportunity to engage in drama, singing, and dance within a professional setting. This initiative sought to inspire young learners by immersing them in a creative, collaborative environment, allowing them to explore new skills while complementing their current school curriculum.
The partnership reflected RGS Worcester’s commitment to community engagement, sharing its facilities and expertise to support local schools, and providing enriching experiences.
Background
The Play in a Day partnership came about as part of RGS Worcester's ongoing commitment to community outreach and educational collaboration. Recognising the value of engaging with local primary schools, the RGS Drama Department identified an opportunity to share their expertise and facilities with Northwick Manor Primary School pupils in a meaningful and creative way.
The partnership was initiated by RGS Worcester's Director of Drama, Mrs Jilly Witcomb, who identified the potential to align the outreach event with Northwick Manor’s current school curriculum theme of the rainforest. This alignment allowed the partnership to not only introduce pupils to drama, singing, and dance but also to enhance their learning experience by connecting the creative activities to their classroom studies.
Resources
The success of the Play in a Day partnership relied on several critical resources provided by RGS Worcester. The event utilised the School’s state-of-the-art Performing Arts Centre (PAC), including its auditorium, stage, and technical facilities, which were essential for the workshops and final performance.
The partnership also drew on the expertise of both teaching and non-teaching staff. RGS Worcester’s Director of Drama, Mrs Jilly Witcomb, led the initiative, writing the bespoke rainforest-themed play and overseeing script work. Drama teacher Mr Jak Garrity taught singing workshops, while Drama Performing Arts Assistant Frances Broadbent guided pupils through dance choreography. Technical support was provided by RGS technician Mr Simon Graeme, ensuring the performance ran smoothly.
In total, four RGS staff members were involved, dedicating an entire school day to delivering the workshops and coordinating the final production. Their combined efforts ensured that the pupils from Northwick Manor Primary School received a memorable and enriching experience, showcasing the importance of collaboration and the shared use of resources to achieve the partnership’s goals.
Pupil Involvement
The pupils involved were Year Six (aged ten and eleven).
Frequency
This activity is one of many Outreach and Partnership events with Northwick Manor Primary School.
