At Feniscowles Primary School, the performing arts are at the heart of the curriculum and play a key role in helping the students grow in confidence and character.
The school recently held its Performing Arts Celebration Week, where students from year two to year five showcased a musical theatre performance.
The Made for Stage programme has been running at the school for two years and is designed to help students gradually develop skills in stage presence, movement, and overall confidence.
Simon Robinson, founder and director of Made for Stage joined Feniscowles Primary School at the start of 2025 and highlighted the importance of having a diverse non-traditional approach to education.
"Some of the children who have flourished the most in our sessions are those who might not always shine in traditional academic settings, and I understand that, because I was that child too," he said.
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Feniscowles' ambition is for every child to perform in an official theatre setting for their final performance by the time the pupils reach year six, building confidence in participation year by year.
The performances allow the children to embrace their nerves and experience performing in front of an audience for the first time.
The year two pupils performed When I Grow Up, and their effort was praised by Mr Andrew who said, "yes, they have the cute factor, but they also have the talent factor".
The children's growth in body language and engagement progress over the year groups as year three performed It's the Hard-Knock Life, year four performed This Is Me, and year five performed Food Glorious Food.
After each performance, Mr Andrew affirmed each performer with comments like "you continue to impress me" and "you should be incredibly proud of yourselves."
The week also included extra activities for year six where they challenged gender stereotypes and stepped outside their comfort zone by learning ballroom dancing with Lancashire Dance Academy for The Feni Does Strictly event.
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Headteacher Rob Andrew said, “Having Made for Stage as part of the Feniscowles Family is one of the best decisions we’ve ever made as a school. It’s opened a doorway to a magical world that many of our children would never have experienced.”
Performing Arts Celebration Week at Feniscowles demonstrates a wider commitment to the arts and theatre. Each year, the school choir participates in Young Voice, performing at venues such as the Co-op Arena in Manchester.
Simon said, "I would like to say a huge well done to all the children on their brilliant performances last week. It was a pleasure watching you all shine like the stars you are.”
The school remains committed to providing opportunities for every child to find their spotlight and build self-belief through the arts.
The combination of structured programmes, extracurricular projects, and supportive guidance ensures that students not only learn theatrical skills, but also grow as resilient and confident young people.
"School doesn’t look the same for everyone. For some, it isn’t about maths tests or spelling scores; it’s about finding the space where they feel seen and valued.
"Whether that outlet is sport, music, drama, musical theatre or dance, every child deserves the chance to discover what makes them light up," Simon said.
If schools would like more information about the Musical Theatre Workshops, they can contact Info@madeforstage.co.uk to discuss bringing the programme to their curriculum.
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