Students with communication and behavioural difficulties from
Patcham House special school scripted, performed and produced a
film called It’s A Dog’s Life, incorporating a series of clay
animation films and historical live action drama. Who was
involved How can we use performing and media arts with Year 9 to
impact on their behaviour as collaborators and communicators?
The project was led by the ideas and opinions of the young
people. Students agreed that they wanted to focus on making a
film about dogs – a common interest they shared. Students,
staff, parents and the creative practitioner discussed and
explored ideas informally, usually in small groups and sometimes
out walking, sometimes with dogs from the rescue centre and also
with their own dogs. Students developed creative skills in
photography, film making, writing and making. They were
encouraged to use these skills to reflect their feelings and
views about animals, drawing attention to the work of the RSPCA
and others in order to affect change.Back