Leeds Heritage Theatres launches new, impactful learning projects

Leeds Heritage Theatres runs a vibrant Learning and Engagement programme across its three venues, offering opportunities to learn, connect, explore the arts, and have fun. Alongside established groups like Leeds Grand Youth Theatre, Leeds Actors in Training, and regular school and holiday workshops, the team frequently launches new initiatives. Recent highlights include The Riot, a Theatre in Education piece that toured four local primary schools; By the Book, a new book club inspired by Little Women; and a creative work experience placement for 30 students.

The Riot

Earlier this year, Leeds Heritage Theatres’ Learning and Engagement team was commissioned by Leeds City Council through UKSPF funding to create a Theatre in Education (TiE) piece on community cohesion for primary schools in Chapeltown and Harehills. Learning and Engagement Officer Ashley Pekri wrote The Riot, inspired by young people’s experiences of the 2024 Harehills riots.

Performed by Leeds Actors in Training (LAIT) members Gabriel Simpson, Beth Walkden, and Madeleine Ivanov, the play toured Bracken Edge, Bankside, and Hovingham Primary Schools over four days. Following each performance, 420 pupils took part in workshops to reshape the story, explore character motivations, and discuss themes of belonging, discrimination, and tolerance.

The headteacher of Bracken Edge Primary said: “I found it very moving, and our children appreciated it as well.” And the headteacher of Bankside Primary said: “Our pupils here at Bankside thoroughly enjoyed the performance and found it very thought-provoking indeed.”

By the Book

By The Book, a participatory book club, was launched to coincide with the stage adaptation of Little Women at Leeds Grand Theatre. Created by Learning and Engagement Officer Imogen Hinchcliffe, the project aimed to promote reading and help new secondary school students build social connections. Each week, the group read chapters of Little Women and produced visual art inspired by the story, which was later exhibited at the theatre during the show’s run. You can find out more about Imogen’s inspiration for By the Book in her blog post on the Leeds Heritage Theatres’ website.

Work experience at Leeds Heritage Theatres

This term, Leeds Heritage Theatres hosted 30 Year 10 students from South Craven and Carr Manor schools for its innovative work experience programme. Unlike traditional placements, students tackled real industry briefs, collaborated with in-house teams, and presented their work in a final showcase.

Part of the organisation’s commitment to widening access to the theatre industry, the programme offers hands-on insight into non-performing roles. Throughout the week, students worked with departments including House Management, Technical, Finance, HR, Communications, and Learning and Engagement, gaining valuable skills like teamwork and communication. Many noted a boost in confidence and a deeper understanding of the behind-the-scenes world of theatre. One participant said: “Seeing backstage has opened up roles that I didn’t even know existed”.

Find out more about the Learning and Engagement programme and discuss working in partnership at leedsheritagetheatres.com