The transition to secondary school is stressful for all children; it is even worse for those who face additional challenges such as learning difficulties, English as a second language, caring responsibilities, or poverty at home. Without opportunities to develop key social skills, disadvantaged children can easily start secondary school on the back foot, and remain there. The disruption caused by coronavirus has hit these children hardest, and made it more likely that they will struggle.

Through our large-scale puppetry projects, disadvantaged children in Year Six develop creative and life skills which help them thrive despite the challenges of transition to secondary school. The children work together to create a complex marionette show from scratch, taking ownership of the production at every stage. While building puppets and sets, they also build concentration, teamwork and communication skills and gain independence, self-confidence and resilience.