St Lukes Winter Festival We were delighted to be able to fund St Luke's winter project. As our partner school we were able to bring in Big State to run workshops and also supply them with Nick Weaver and Andre Pysanczyn. The event ran from 28th -30th November.

“Each day began with Helen Hewitt from ‘ Big State’ leading drama games in the school hall. All students and staff joined in with these.

“On Wednesday, the student group was then divided into two. One half remained with Helen to begin movement work, portraying a ship at sea, while the rest began painting depictions of an island and a ship. Helen next began video making work with small groups and individuals.

“Large parts of Thursday were devoted to model making and stop frame animation work, in which all students participated. Also on Thursday and on Friday morning, students made masks and costumes for themselves and for each other. Students also contributed to making the soundtrack for the animated film.

“The show on Friday incorporated music made by Year 7 students prior to the festival, but with the festival brief in mind, as well as showings of the two films completed during the festival.

“Particularly noteworthy was the positive rapport that both Helen Hewitt and Nick Weaver were able to establish from the outset with all the students. All students worked in areas they were unfamiliar with and achieved successful outcomes that enhanced individual self-esteem. There was a good turn out of family and friends to help celebrate the students’ success in a positive and friendly atmosphere.

“Enormous progress was made in establishing confidence and positive attitudes to performing arts – areas of the curriculum to which all students have been under exposed. Very helpful ground was thereby laid for progression in the future.” Simon McNulty , Festival Arts Group leader at St Lukes School.