Creative Achievers: Oracy in Action
Empowering voices through creativity and performance
The Project
Our Creative Achievers programme has brought the power of drama and storytelling into many classrooms, supporting pupils to build confidence, strengthen their communication skills, and find their voice. Designed to nurture oracy and self-expression, the project combined creative exploration with structured, purposeful learning, enabling every child to speak, perform, and share their ideas with pride.
One particular project focused on poetry and performance, inviting pupils to explore language through rhythm, imagination, and play. Over six weeks, they worked closely with a team of Bigfoot educators and their teachers, discovering new ways to express themselves while learning how voice, body, and emotion can bring words to life. The project culminated in a vibrant sharing performance for families and carers – A joyful celebration of creativity and courage.
One teacher described the transformation they witnessed:
“By the end of our time together, the children were able to deliver a wonderful performance in front of an audience of 50 people, a massive feat! Not only did the children develop, but we as practitioners broadened our understanding of drama, speaking and PSED.”
The Process
Building on the success of our poetry project, we returned the following year with a new focus, storytelling through script and performance, inspired by the captivating tales of Anansi the Spider. The programme began with a high-energy assembly performance of Come ‘An See Anansi, led by one of our Senior Educators, which ignited curiosity across the whole school. Teachers were also provided with filmed resources and classroom materials, ensuring that the learning could continue long after the project ended.
Groups of pupils from across the school were carefully selected to take part, with sessions designed to provide a nurturing and supportive experience for every learner. Working in small groups, each guided by two Bigfoot educators alongside school staff, pupils had the space to experiment, collaborate, and grow in confidence.
“The small group sizes were such a treat — it meant we could work individually with pupils and really see their confidence grow,” shared one of our Lead Educators.
Sessions ran weekly for six weeks, creating a consistent rhythm of creativity and self-expression. As the project progressed, pupils became visibly more confident, engaged, and expressive — a change that teachers described as “transformative”. One remarked, “The feedback has been nothing but positive. The children are engaging brilliantly — lots of smiles, laughs and giggles. Their confidence is soaring.”
The Impact
Throughout the project, children developed a wide range of oracy and performance skills, from speaking clearly and listening actively to exploring movement, body language, and storytelling. Using Anansi as a springboard, they devised their own stories, experimented with characterisation, and collaborated to create original performances.
“Some of the quieter children blossomed,” said another educator. “One pupil who barely spoke at the start was leading by the end. It was just brilliant.”
The final sharing performance brought the whole project together, a joyful moment where pupils stood tall, spoke clearly, and performed with pride in front of an audience of parents, governors, and teachers. For many, it was their first experience of performing to a crowd, and the sense of achievement was unforgettable.
As one project leader reflected:
“Watching a few of the students conquer their fears to stand up and perform was really powerful. They truly valued the praise and recognition for their hard work.”
And another added:
“The chance to share their work and have a spotlight moment was such a confidence booster. It was a session full of support and encouragement.”
Looking Ahead
Every Creative Achievers project is built around collaboration, care, and creativity. By combining drama-based learning with tailored school partnerships, we give children the tools to speak with confidence, listen with empathy, and express themselves with joy.
We continue to be inspired by the incredible growth we see in every child who takes part, from the first hesitant whisper to the final proud performance. When pupils are given space to explore, imagine, and be heard, their confidence doesn’t just grow – it soars!
If your school would like to explore how a Creative Achievers oracy project could empower your pupils, we’d love to work with you.
Get in touch to discover how we can design a bespoke creative learning experience for your community.