Our Mission

Coram Shakespeare Schools Foundation is a cultural education charity that gives young people the confidence and skills to succeed in life.

We use the unique power of Shakespeare to transform lives.

The world’s largest youth drama festival lies at the heart of Coram Shakespeare Schools Foundation’s transformative process. Every year, we work with thousands of pupils from every community, background and school type across the UK. Months of preparation culminate in exhilarating performance evenings in professional theatres nationwide; a night which can give confidence and self esteem to last a lifetime.

Our carefully tailored programmes, curriculum resources and standalone workshops improve teamwork and educational attainment.

  • 97% of teachers say their students work better together as a team
  • 81% report improvements in academic attainment

    • We engage diverse groups, including those with special educational needs and from minority ethnic backgrounds, and are passionate about reaching those living in areas of deprivation. With us, children gain the crucial skills they need to succeed in life. As Yusuf, aged 10 puts it: “In the future it helps you with a job, if you didn’t do this you may not have the guts.”

    By delivering these results in every type of school, we promote social inclusion and improve life chances. Coram Shakespeare Schools Foundation knows that the unique power of Shakespeare really can transform lives.

    Our Values

    Our values are a statement of intent, embodying the visceral, energetic and ambitious way in which we work to fulfil this mission.

    Aspirational:  With us, confidence flourishes and people exceed expectations. By using challenging texts, professional theatres and a rigorous, supportive process we make learning ambitious.

    Creative: Our programmes spark imaginations and ignite curiosity. We facilitate playful spaces of learning where participants can explore and express new ideas, push limits, and discover fresh approaches to Shakespeare’s stories through their own.

    Experiential:  We offer a dynamic and enriching approach that shows performing Shakespeare is not just fun, it can also be terrifying, hilarious and deeply moving.  Everyone involved learns more about what it means to be human.

    Inclusive: We embrace the diversity of young people across the UK and ensure Shakespeare is accessible and relevant to every audience and place. Through collaboration and performance we bring people together; from uniting a company to connecting a community with their local theatre.

    Transformative: We know that what we do has the power to change lives.