MakeBelieve Arts is a theatre and education company, offering unique and innovative programmes to develop the creative potential of children. They believe all children are entitled to a high quality creative education from an early age and have developed a reputation for excellence both nationally and internationally. Their team of highly experienced facilitators delivers INSETs, in-class workshops and parental engagement sessions working particularly with EYFS and Key Stage 1.

Quote from OFSTED report (May 2017) for Pembury House Nursery School (Outstanding) who are one of MakeBelieve Arts' Centres of Excellence...‘New approaches to literacy sessions have also improved children’s knowledge and understanding. For example, ‘helicopter story’ sessions help children understand the structure and sequence of stories before they invent their own story, dictate it to an adult and act it out. As a result, children are more confident in narrating stories and using their imagination.’

 

"The best and most passionate training I have attended as a teacher." Salford Reception Teacher 2018

The work delivered by MakeBelieve Arts:

Helicopter Stories – Storytelling is an ability we are born with, helping us to make sense of the world. Inspired by Vivian Gussin Paley’s storytelling and story acting, Helicopter Stories involves workshop leaders scribing the stories told to them by children word-for-word. These stories are then acted out by the class on a taped-out stage. This approach has a proven track record of enhancing children's speaking and listening skills and their ability to communicate with one another. It not only develops emotional intelligence but creates a community of storytellers in the classroom.

Creative Writing – MakeBelieve Arts also run creative writing projects aimed at primary school age children. They are based on an adaption of Helicopter Stories and use music, drama and movement.

Training – A full range of training is available from twilights to full day INSET’s for Teachers, Practitioners, Carers and Parents, all tailored to meet each school and settings budget.

Key information·

• Inclusive, whole-class approaches to learning, valuing every child’s contribution
• Particularly suitable for Early Years and Primary School settings
• Helps in the development of key social, emotional and cognitive skills through creative play
• Allows children to explore the world around them in an imaginative way, while also developing an understanding of the power of words.
• Approach can reach all children, including those with learning difficulties
• All that is needed is some A5 paper and a roll of masking tape