Teach17

The National Theatre offers performances, workshops, digital resources and tailored support for SEND and SEMH schools. Its dedicated programme is designed to help more pupils experience theatre in ways that recognise different learning, communication, sensory and emotional needs.

Here are 17 things teachers and school leaders should know.

1. There is a dedicated offer for SEND and SEMH schools

The National Theatre has brought its relevant opportunities together on a dedicated SEND and SEMH schools page. This is a useful starting point for teachers planning theatre visits, classroom activities or longer creative projects.

2. SEND and SEMH are both recognised

SEND refers to special educational needs and disabilities, while SEMH covers social, emotional and mental health needs. The programme recognises that pupils may experience a wide range of barriers to taking part in theatre.

3. Support can be adapted to individual groups

This is not simply a standard schools programme with a different label. The National Theatre has previously worked with schools to change resources, activities and levels of support according to the needs of particular groups.

4. Schools can discuss their needs before taking part

Teachers know their pupils best. Schools can explain mobility, communication, sensory, behavioural or emotional needs before booking so that the most suitable support can be considered.

5. Adapted performances are available

The National Theatre offers a range of accessible performances. Teachers should check the access information attached to individual productions rather than assuming that every performance has the same provision.

6. Audio-described performances support visually impaired pupils

Audio description explains important visual elements of a production, including movement, settings, costumes and physical action. It is available for selected performances on stage and online.

7. Touch tours can help pupils prepare

Some audio-described performances are accompanied by touch tours. These may allow pupils to explore parts of the set, costumes or props before watching the production, making the theatrical world easier to understand.

8. BSL-interpreted performances are available

Selected performances include British Sign Language interpretation. Schools should check dates carefully because BSL interpretation will normally be offered at specific performances rather than throughout an entire run.

9. Captioned performances can support different pupils

Captioned performances display the actors’ words and relevant sound information. Captions can support D/deaf and hard-of-hearing pupils, but may also help some pupils who find it easier to process written and spoken language together.

10. Chilled performances provide a more relaxed environment

Chilled performances take a more informal approach to audience behaviour. They may be suitable for pupils who need to move, make noise or leave and return during a performance.

11. Sensory-adapted performances are part of the offer

Selected productions may include sensory-adapted performances. These can reduce some of the barriers created by loud sounds, lighting effects, sudden changes or an unfamiliar theatre environment.

12. Physical access information is available

The National Theatre provides information for wheelchair users and visitors with mobility needs. Schools can check access to the building, theatres and seating areas before arranging a visit.

13. The Access Scheme can help schools choose suitable tickets

The National Theatre’s Access Scheme helps visitors find seats and performances that provide the most appropriate experience. It is worth investigating this before making a group booking involving pupils with access requirements.

14. Productions can be streamed in the classroom

The National Theatre Collection gives schools access to professionally recorded productions and supporting educational materials. It is free for UK state schools.

Streaming can work particularly well in SEND and SEMH settings because teachers can pause a performance, divide it into shorter sections and prepare pupils for particular scenes.

15. Primary schools can explore the Let’s Play programme

Let’s Play helps state primary schools create and perform their own theatre. It provides plays, music, resources and professional support for pupils aged 5–11.

The National Theatre has previously worked with SEND and SEMH schools to adapt and abridge plays so that they better suit particular groups.

16. New Views can support young playwrights

New Views is the National Theatre’s playwriting programme for young people aged 14–19. It takes place in schools, online and through partner organisations.

Previous adaptations for SEND and SEMH participants have included bespoke writing resources, playwright mentors with relevant experience and additional support staff.

17. The National Theatre can work directly with schools

Previous collaborations have included adapting scripts and providing professional development on inclusive theatre practice. Schools interested in a visit, workshop or creative project should make contact early and explain what would help their pupils participate successfully.

Explore the full National Theatre offer for SEND and SEMH schools or email schools@nationaltheatre.org.uk to discuss the available support.