Hello!
My name is Victoria Lightfoot and I am a third-year student of Drama in Education and Community, at York St John University. In September I will begin my PGCE to become a qualified secondary school Drama teacher and I cannot wait to get started.
I believe that all children and young people should be able to access drama, however and whenever they wish, but this can be difficult if, for example, some schools do not utilise or teach drama in the classroom, or the local theatre company is too expensive.
I aim to advocate access to drama in as many ways as possible and have begun this already by becoming the volunteer director of my local, not-for-profit drama group. The most amazing thing about this role, is witnessing the young people develop throughout the process. I have observed a painfully shy child find their voice on stage, and witnessed an outspoken teenager, transform into a kind and compassionate member of the group. Even if they have no desire to ‘be a star’, drama enables children and young people to gain confidence, improve self-esteem and increase skills in teamwork, problem solving and emotional intelligence.
Utilising drama in education is another element that I am passionate about because it is such a versatile tool. Drama in the classroom enables young people to thoroughly explore themes and content in a way that is engaging and creative, whilst allowing students to display their thoughts and ideas in a different format.
Completing a PGCE in drama, takes me one step closer to achieving these goals.