City of Peterborough Academy has been featured in the Royal Shakespeare Company's annual impact report, recognising the Academy's successful involvement in the RSC Associate Schools Programme over the last three years.
As part of the programme, the Academy has worked closely with the Royal Shakespeare Company to embed rehearsal-room approaches and performance-based learning into its Drama curriculum, helping pupils engage with Shakespeare in creative, accessible and meaningful ways.
The Academy's journey is highlighted in a case study within the national report, which showcases the impact the partnership has had on pupils, staff and the wider school community.
Teacher of English and Drama at City of Peterborough Academy, Emily Gillespie-Beal, said:
"The impact has been astounding. It has given pupils a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to travel to Stratford-upon-Avon and perform in professional theatres with industry directors and choreographers. It has given all of us an increased confidence with Shakespeare, giving us a sense of ownership and making it feel completely relevant to our pupils."
City of Peterborough Academy serves a diverse, multicultural community, with around half of pupils speaking English as an additional language and almost half eligible for free school meals.
Since joining the Associate Schools Programme, the Academy has transformed the way Shakespeare is taught, extending learning beyond the English classroom and embedding it throughout the Key Stage 3 Drama curriculum, extracurricular activities and Playmaking Festival projects.
Using Royal Shakespeare Company rehearsal-room techniques, pupils are encouraged to explore, question and interpret Shakespeare's work through discussion, collaboration and performance. This approach has helped pupils develop confidence with complex texts, allowing them to engage more deeply with character, theme and meaning.
The impact has been felt far beyond the stage. Teachers have reported increased confidence among participating pupils in English lessons, while others have noted how pupils who may appear shy or reserved in the classroom often demonstrate leadership, creativity and self-belief during rehearsals and performances.
Participation in Shakespeare projects has opened doors to opportunities many pupils may not otherwise have experienced. Through the programme, pupils have performed in professional theatres, taken part in the National Playmaking Festival and developed a strong sense of belonging within a community of like-minded young people who share a passion for performance. For some, these experiences have included their first trips outside Peterborough, helping to broaden horizons, build confidence and raise aspirations.
One pupil's journey particularly highlights the programme's impact. Following his involvement in the Academy's Associate Schools Programme, Year 11 pupil Samuel Djau was selected to join the Royal Shakespeare Company's prestigious Next Generation programme.
Speaking about the opportunities the programme has provided, Samuel said:
"Joining the Associate Schools Programme was an incredible experience and one of the biggest opportunities I've ever had. Going from performing in our school hall to performing on stage in Stratford-upon-Avon was something I never imagined possible.
Before the programme, I never thought I would even visit Stratford-upon-Avon, let alone perform there regularly. It has given me the confidence to pursue a career in acting and has helped me realise just how passionate I am about drama and performance.
Through both the Associate Schools Programme and the RSC's Next Generation programme, I've had the chance to work with talented industry professionals, develop my skills and learn so much. I'm incredibly grateful that my school got involved, as it has opened doors and created opportunities I never thought would be possible."
The programme has also strengthened connections between school and home, with families recognising the positive impact on pupils' confidence, commitment and enthusiasm.
Reflecting on the Academy's growing reputation for the arts, another pupil shared:
"Drama has changed this school."
The inclusion of City of Peterborough Academy in the Royal Shakespeare Company's associate schools impact report highlights the lasting influence of the partnership and its role in helping young people develop confidence, creativity and a lifelong appreciation of literature and performance.