‘Freefalling’ is a year-long drama-based programme for children aged 9-11 years old at risk of social exclusion Children who are at risk of social exclusion, who need focus in their lives, and have an interest in the performing arts will be referred. There are two elements to this project: • Freefalling Summer School • Freefalling Youth Theatre These children need: • To achieve and be rewarded for achieving. • Positive attention from adults they trust. • The opportunity to escape the labels that society gives them as 'bad' and 'excluded'. • Non-academic spaces in which to express themselves and explore issues they face. • To have fun and enjoy themselves with their peers. What difference the project will make Freefalling helps children develop self confidence and self expression, improving their communication and listening skills, which helps them develop better relationships with their peers, family and teachers. Drama helps these children to have increased sociability. The project will help children develop coping strategies for difficult situations meaning they are less likely to resort to violent behaviour and are able to voluntarily absent themselves with a 'time out' rather than being disruptive and then excluded. Exploring situations in drama means children are better able to empathise and understand other people's points of view. Freefalling makes children feel proud that they have achieved something special and develops their confidence and ambition to succeed in life and take on more challenges.