Hull Truck Theatre, offering Royal Shakespeare Company Associate School Programme. 

In Partnership with Brough Primary School and St George's primary School

But be quick- closing date Monday 15th December

Hull Truck Theatre is offering a program that will enable the "Associate Schools" network to participate in diverse activities specifically created to improve primary school students' understanding of Shakespeare.

Inviting 10-15 primary schools from Hull, East Riding of Yorkshire and North East Lincolnshire to be a part of a unique opportunity! This is a two-year project, starting in January 2026 and spanning two academic years.

 The programme will see classroom teachers transformed and empowered using real life RSC rehearsal room techniques. These approaches are proven to assist students of diverse backgrounds in developing a love for language, thus facilitating their ability to provide complex verbal and written analytical responses. 

Teachers will have the chance to attend training days and meetings across the two-year term to support them in using the techniques learnt, as well as the opportunity for students to present what they have learned at a cumulative performance event at Hull Truck Theatre. Tom Saunders, Associate Director at Hull Truck Theatre said, "We're delighted to once again play our part in this fantastic project. It's a wonderful opportunity for local schools to get involved in a truly special national initiative. Shakespeare offers such a rich tapestry of plots, characters, and language, and we've seen first-hand how this project can not only reshape a school's approach to reading and writing, but also positively transform pupils' attitudes toward learning."

 "At Hull Truck Theatre, we're passionate about connecting our local communities with the arts and encouraging young people to explore all kinds of theatre from an early age. This initiative offers an exciting chance to dive into the world of Shakespeare and build valuable skills in language, drama, and literacy along the way." 

During the school year, Associate Schools' staff and students will engage in various activities aimed at enhancing teachers' classroom methods and cultivating pupils' appreciation for Shakespeare. 

Throughout the year, teachers will have access to training sessions and meetings to help them implement the new techniques, and students will have the chance to showcase their learning at a performance at Hull Truck Theatre. A Hull Truck Theatre drama practitioner will visit their school twice to offer support in rehearsals for the final performance event. 

The project improves confidence, develops language ability, and allows students to express themselves and their ideas more clearly. It also encourages a positive attitude to school and learning. Helen Shepherdson, Headteacher at Brough Primary School, said, "Becoming an Associate School has revolutionised our approach to teaching. It hasn't just transformed how we deliver English across the school – it has played a vital role in building pupils' self-confidence, resilience, and self-belief: essential life skills for every child. As our school motto reminds us, 'Learning is a journey, not a destination' – a sentiment that truly reflects our experience as part of the Associate Schools Programme." 

Mrs Gabrielle Fox Teacher at St. George's Primary School said,"Our partnership with the RSC and Hull Truck Theatre has been truly transformative for the children at St George's. It has opened up new spaces for creative expression, nurturing confidence and resilience in ways we hadn't seen before. We are proud to be part of the Associate Schools Programme and greatly value the expertise and inspiration it brings to our school community." 

There are currently 10 - 15 places available. The financial investment is £450 + VAT per school, per academic year. Places are expected to fill up quickly, so interested parties are encouraged to sign-up as soon as possible to secure their place. 

To apply to take part in this fantastic opportunity, please download the expression of interest form here and return to engagement@hulltruck.co.uk by Monday 15 December, 9am. Key dates document also available as a download if required. Click here. 

To find out more about Hull Truck Theatre's work with schools and educational partnerships, please visit: www.hulltruck.co.uk/get-involved/schools/ NB: There are only 10-15 places available, and they're expected to be taken quickly.