Join Young People’s Puppet Theatre for a session exploring how puppets can be used across the curriculum to improve children’s engagement and confidence.

• Improve your creative confidence
• Learn how to make your own simple puppets using common household materials, along with basic puppetry skills (see below for simple materials to gather before the session)
• Come away with a simple creative session suitable for KS1-2
• Learn how stories, puppet making and puppetry can help you engage reluctant learners in your class
• Explore ways to use storytelling and puppetry across the curriculum, including learning from other teachers who have used YPPT puppet projects to boost engagement in other lessons

Materials to gather for the session:

• x3 pencils or chopsticks
• x1 empty carton (either 1-pint milk carton with lid , 500ml yoghurt tub or 2-pint milk/juice carton)
• x3 rubber bands
• Sharp scissors
• A sharpie/permanent marker
• A teatowel or pillowcase (it won’t get ruined!)
• Optional – wool/string and cellotape (for making hair)

About us

Young People’s Puppet Theatre (YPPT) was founded in 2014 by father-and-daughter team Jeremy and Caitlin Duschenes, who are third and fourth generation puppeteers. Since then, they have worked with over 2,000 school pupils aged 9-18 to create over 60 productions in Hertfordshire and the surrounding area.

The YPPT has built successful partnerships with primary, secondary and special schools, as well as cultural organisations such as St Albans Cathedral. YPPT believe passionately in the power of the arts, and puppetry in particular, to change the lives of children and young people for the better. Through the process of creating a complex marionette show from scratch, pupils develop social, practical and creative skills; from design and theatre skills, to working independently, taking responsibility, working as part of a team and communicating effectively.

Who is this session for?

This event is suitable for KS1-2 teachers and teaching assistants, primary school English/drama/Art/D&T leads, and SENCos and SEN specialists.

We regret that this session is not open to colleagues from cultural organisations or freelancers working with schools.

Please note: this session is designed for participation and attendees will be asked to have their cameras on