The launch of the creative diploma last year presented us with a big challenge to be able to meet the new demands of schools and pupils for work-based learning opportunities.  James Andriot at Sandhill View School in Sunderland had an interestign approach, to involve companies in a longer term capacity, in which the students take the lead on a real project. 

Northern Stage is now working with the students on an original piece of theatre which will be performed in the school to a paying audience.  The students are not only devising and writing the scripts but taking on roles such as production and technical managers, set designers, lighting and sound operstors.  Oh, and performing in it too!

"So far we have been really blown away by the ingenuity of the students' ideas - they have some really clever takes on traditional fairy stories.  Can't wait to see what the final show looks like."  Mark Calvert, Director