Science Circus – King’s Manor School, Specialist Sports College

Dance City Creative Partnerships (Tees Valley)

Enquiry question

How can we use creativity to engage all pupils in their science curriculum and ensure ownership, excitement and relevance?

Bell and Bullock, a professional circus theatre company delivered fun and imaginative workshops helping to improve co-ordination, concentration, self esteem, perseverance and learning.

Project objectives

The aim was to make science lessons at King's Manor School more engaging and exciting. Activities were developed using circus skills to enhance the science curriculum.

Who was involved?

Creative Practitioners: Karen Bell, Dafe Bullock
Creative Agent: Gordon Poad

Impact

Initially Bell and Bullock collaborated with science teachers to explore different ways of delivering the curriculum. This led to a 'whole staff training session' where every teacher was challenged to develop exciting lessons for their subject - but with a science theme.

The project culminated with 'The Big Top' - a celebration day with fun science based activities. Along with a Circus Big Top Tent, teachers, pupils, parents and the community were treated to food stalls, carnival games and themed food.

The school was proud to host the first ever 'North East Science Busking Event' which saw pupils competing against one another by performing various scientific demonstrations.

For further information, please contact the Dance City Creative Partnerships team.