Cheshire Building Society staff with the pupils of St Mary's Catholic High School near Manchester.

supporting students' social & personal development

• Overall 94% of students involved in the evaluation* responded that the Festival was fun.
• 72% of students said that the Festival had given them greater self confidence.
• 50% said that they had gained a sense of achievement from working hard for something worth the effort.
• 44% said they had learnt how to express themselves more.
• 39% of students felt that the Festival had encouraged them to take responsibility.
• 36% felt that they had learned to give and take criticism.
• 30% said that the experience gave them a greater understanding of emotions.

supporting students’ professional development

The Shakespeare Schools Festival’s aim is to offer every young person in the UK a creative learning opportunity through live, professional theatre. The Festival is open access and celebratory, and works with young people from all backgrounds and cultures. SSF has evaluated the impact of its work with schools over the past 3 years. Our results show the diversity of participants and how the project benefits young people's learning, social skills and personal development. Read more here

"The concept of the Festival is visionary. It provides the opportunity for working class children to explore Shakespeare's work . You have provided lifelong memories for thousands of children and their families in this country." Parent of performer, Stockport, Cheshire read more here