Imaginary Communities (IC) is Chol’s unique approach to drama education. IC promotes play and imagination to aid writing and integrate theatre into the curriculum, nourishing wider learning through drama. Our methods have been developed with, and in support of, teachers and children. We have been working with schools for over 10 years and have become a trusted partner. Our core team understand the challenges and possibilities for creative learning within education. Take a look at our current offers for schools 2023/24.
Imaginary Communities: Aims
Improve wellbeing and literacy
Children become equal playmakers in IC when they imagine, create and act alongside peers and adults. A sense of belonging is developed in the class as children discover their unique voices together. Our research has shown that children feel more positive about themselves, their peers, teachers and learning.
Put theatre at the centre of learning
IC is a joyful balance of theatre and curriculum that really works.Teachers often express frustration that learning targets and arts are presented as a dichotomy in education. IC shows that theatre can nourish wider learning and improve pupil attainment across curriculum subjects.
Inspire Teachers
We want Imaginary Communities to live on in schools beyond the workshops by developing teachers’ interests, skills and knowledge in drama education through effective CPDL. The Education Endowment Fund has evidenced valuable strategies that improve the attainment and wider outcomes of children and young people and many of these strategies are covered by our IC programmes, including arts participation, collaborative learning, digital technology, variety of learning styles, metacognition and self-regulation. Find out what teachers say about using Imaginary communities here.
