Working collaboratively with Odd Arts to engage learners in education

Recently, HMYOI Wetherby and Odd Arts worked collaboratively to deliver a theatre-based project for Novus learners. The aim of the interactive theatre workshops was to address hateful extremism and increase the understanding of the process of radicalisation. 

Partnership working to provide new opportunities for learners

The recent theatre-based workshop at HMYOI Wetherby proved to be deeply impactful and an engaging experience for the young learners who took part. 

Learners connected strongly with the main story that was played out in theatre-form in the workshop, which explored themes of grooming, vulnerability and manipulation. Many recognised parts of their own lived experiences in the characters, particularly in James, a young carer navigating life without a support network. His story sparked important conversations about the emotions that often come with vulnerable circumstances i.e., fear, anger, isolation, and a desire for change. Through James’ journey, they also discussed how vulnerability can cause individuals to be susceptible to external influences and ideological manipulation.   

Through in-depth discussions and forum theatre, they explored the vulnerabilities of both characters and how their moments of weakness could serve as entry points for radicalisation or manipulation. One learner shared, “I just feel really sorry that they didn’t have help,” which sparked a meaningful conversation about how we might support a friend or peer facing similar challenges.

The learners engaged well in the workshop, and their level of focus and willingness to engage with difficult emotional content was extremely impressive and recognised by all involved in facilitating the workshop. Many of the learners who participated allowed themselves to express their own vulnerability, openly discussing emotions and acknowledging that they are often suppressed due to perceptions around masculinity. 

Common themes around “manning up” and “stepping up” arose multiple times during the session. Together, the learners and facilitators explored what these phrases mean, and how they can sometimes reinforce harmful ideas about supressing emotion and simply “getting on with it”. By returning to James’ story, the group reflected on how different things might have been if he had received early emotional support, either from a trusted peer or by reaching out himself. 

The workshop was a huge success with learners, creating a safe space for them to engage with complex emotional and social issues, and also helped build empathy, resilience and critical thinking. Projects like this offer learners a unique opportunity to explore challenging topics in a safe, creative and supportive environment. By using theatre as a tool for education and reflection, learners are encouraged to engage emotionally and intellectually with real-life issues that often go unspoken.

Partnerships like these, allow us to provide new opportunities for learners that enrich their education journey and provides them with the skills and knowledge needed to grow as individuals as well as be prepared for life outside of prison. 

To learn more about how we engage learners in education through creative enrichment, take a look at the 2024/25 creative enrichment strategy, or if you are interested in working with us to provide new opportunities for learners contact us today!