Helen’s class act

7:00pm Monday 15th May 2006

CONFIDENCE and self- esteem are being boosted at schools across East Lancashire thanks to "refreshing" drama classes run by a former teacher.

Helen Robinson, the brains behind the Learning Through Drama' theatre company, has been praised by educationalists.

Her pioneering company, which has visited schools across the county, takes an innovative look at drama.

Instead of having actors and performers simply put on a show and leave, Helen's company asks pupils to produce chunks of the script of the drama productions often culminating in a performance for parents.

And headteachers have said that step is boosting confidence, esteem and team building skills.

She plans to visit more schools including in Accrington, Burnley and Blackburn after winning backing from school heads.

They include Catherine Finch, head at Balderstone St Leonard's Primary School, Balderstone which welcomed Helen's theatre company for a number of projects.

Mrs Finch said: "They have been very effective in terms of children's confidence.

"Her approach is creative and very useful for the language, speaking and listening part of the curriculum."

Gaynor Stubbs, head at Wensley Fold CE Primary School, Manor Road, Blackburn is another advocate. "All the pupils have a focus and everyone is involved.

"They provide an opportunity to build enthusiasm and confidence.

"It's a refreshing approach and they are tailor-made to fit in with the curriculum." she said.

In recent months Helen, whose teaching career has included stints at Salesbury CE Primary School, Salesbury and Westholme School, Blackburn, has worked on variety of initiatives ranging from a council-run community cohesion project with Year 9 pupils throughout Blackburn with Darwen to helping with a schools' Second World War topic.

Helen, 31, said: "By taking ownership of their own drama days they are learning devising skills, reading and writing skills and how to work together.

"They also help with the promotion of self-esteem and confidence.

"I find maybe the ones who are not so good academically are very, very good in the dramas."

"They are tailor-made around whatever a school wants, whether it's The Great Fire of London or a healthy living week."

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