Workshops focus on the development of speaking and listening skills, and explore the dynamic between oral and written language. In particular, they examine the structure of a story and the way words can be used in imaginative ways to describe character and setting. Workshops can also provide opportunities for a cross-curricular approach linking to music, art, history, geography and the environment. With a duration of between 50 to 120 minutes, they are designed to cater for classes of up to 30 participants.

Residencies combine performances and workshops over a series of sessions so that outcomes develop in carefully graded stages from week to week. Each residency is designed in close consultation with participating staff, but the general objectives are:

• to introduce curricular topics through stories, songs, riddles, rhymes and games

• to encourage creative uses of both spoken and written language

• to improve social skills and group dynamics through role-play and improvisation

• to develop resources for future classroom use