Wendy Frost received a National Drama Bursary for a one-day workshop on using Dialectical Methodologies. PGCE Drama students at Wolverhampton University practically explored activities focused on fostering critical thinking for young people, promoting a range of competencies that developed skills as active citizens.
One participant said:
‘I am confident I will use the things I have learnt to discuss a range of subjects and give young adults a chance to voice their opinions. Dialectics are important to Drama, as they provide a safe space within the classroom and enable us to consider opposing ideas at length.”
Arnold K. Koledji received funding for supplies and travel expenses for a performance project on social issues facing local youth. With Middle and High School students in Togo, the performance investigated topics of forgiveness and environmental protection in the community.
One participant said: “Theatre helps me to express myself in front of my mates and develop my skills.”
Mark Pluckrose received funding to attend the World Alliance for Arts Education Conference in Frankfurt, Germany. He attended workshops, performances, lectures, panels, and seminars, and found out about the Seoul Agreement and Drama Manifesto.
He reflected in his article that, “The WAAE was more inspiring than I hoped it could be. This experience reminded me to keep changing, adapting and challenging what I do as an educator. More importantly, it reminded me that I am far from alone. There’s a huge exciting world of Drama education out there”
Paul Bateson received a National Drama Bursary to research these questions:
- How can an Early Career Drama Teacher flourish?
- What do ECTs need from a National Association?
- How can ITE help?
One participant said: “Ask yourself, ‘Why Drama?’ Why do you teach this subject and what does this subject mean to you? … Your ITT and ECT years are all about experimenting with your practice and finding what works best for you and your students. Once you feel confident with your pedagogy you can use this as your toolkit for building lessons that stay true to you.”