Shakespeare’s Othello was the focus of an exciting workshop hosted by HSDC South Downs and run by the prestigious Royal Shakespeare Company.
Several teachers from local schools alongside staff from all three campuses at HSDC were invited to take part in a practical workshop aimed at upskilling and development whilst focusing on interpretation of scenes from Othello.
The session, which was run by a member of the Royal Shakespeare Company encouraged individuals, particularly those who teach English and Drama to explore the meaning of Othello and Shakespeare, whilst taking away new ideas to use back in the classroom.
No prior knowledge or confidence in teaching Shakespeare was required, however, the workshop enabled the group to feel more comfortable with teaching Shakespeare and making it more enjoyable for students.
Pete Budd, Head of Faculty for Arts and Humanities said:
“We are very grateful to the RSC for arranging the workshop for us and to Aaron who led the session. It was great to welcome teachers from local schools to the session too.”
It was extremely beneficial to have other schools in attendance so that we were able to share ideas and to work with teachers working in a range of settings. I really enjoyed collaborating with such an enthusiastic and engaged group of teachers. It was interesting to consider how the RSC Rehearsal Room approaches to Shakespeare could be used in Drama and English lessons, and I’ll take back some practical techniques and ideas relating to race and post-colonialism to my lessons.”
Natalie Randall, Programme Leader of Arts and Humanities added:
“It was brilliant to collaborate with English and Drama teachers across our three campuses and feeder schools to explore Othello. I think it’s so helpful, as a teacher, to be able to position yourself as a student again through CPD opportunities such as this and to remember what makes a great lesson.
The Royal Shakespeare Company rehearsal room approach opened up important conversations about the text and brought lots of fun and laughter. Shakespeare is for everyone and finding practical ways to bring the text to life is so important. Then you can add the academic bit!”
We look forward to welcoming the Royal Shakespeare Company back to HSDC in the future.
For more on the RSC click here.