How it all started
Chickenshed's production, "Day 1 - Big School," was created and devised around the words and opinions of 1,000 primary school-age children. They shared their insights on how to create safer environments for children, free from negative influences, bullying, and exploitation.
Through the use of dance, music, rap, and drama, this production portrays the journey of two young cousins in search of the safest school possible. It tackles challenging issues in a manner that encourages conversation and discussion within a positive setting. The accompanying workshop complements the performance by promoting learning outcomes and fostering children's understanding of what constitutes a safe space.
In collaboration with Enfield Borough Council, this powerful performance and workshop have had a significant impact in Enfield, serving as valuable resources for the community.
"The show is amazing. I told the Chickenshed staff member Michael. Those kids - all 150 of them were completely "in" the experience. I was watching them with the Form teachers. Totally engaged. And that's their best chance of learning. Their only chance. If they are hooked in. Then they learn. It's hard-hitting but it needs to be. These Yr 6 kids are going to be challenged and tested by these issues of gang grooming and finding safe role models. Some of them are already having to go through it on their streets even before Secondary school starts. This kind of show and workshop will do so much good and is badly needed."
Performance and Workshops
This 40-minute show and accompanying workshop is delivered by Chickenshed's trained outreach team many of who connect to these topics through their own lived experience. The issues are brought to life through songs, dance, rap and scenes that bring home the important concerns of young people facing these transition years.
"It’s been great to be part of the project day one big school as I feel it is really making a difference and helping kids. My school definitely could’ve benefited from a show like day one big school as it really alerts kids about what you should and shouldn’t do when you are transitioning from year 6 to year 7. I feel it really prepares year 6 and shows them what to expect and how to handle certain situations. The feedback has been great from the kids and knowing that the show having an impact makes me proud to keep performing it."
Day 1 - Big School Pack
Click to take a look at our Day 1 - Big School Pack
Jojo Morrall
Head of Education Programmes & Projects (Outreach)
Head of Education Programmes and Projects (Outreach)