The Caedmon Company

 

 

The feedback from the schools and CYP speaks volumes about the positive impact our arts-based learning programme The Hero's Journey, is having. In the heroes own words:
 
“I didn’t like speaking in public, but after I joined Caedmon, I love public speaking.”
 
“I loved it. Steve was there for me whenever I needed support, and Giles helped me understand who I was.”
 
“It was a thrilling experience. The group was amazing.”
 
“The Caedmon Company helped boost my confidence and taught me not to be nervous on stage and in front of other people.”
 
“My favourite part was being on stage, showing my artwork, and being inspiring.”
 
“It improved my confidence. Before I started, I was a bit nervous, but then I got used to it and absolutely loved it. I loved going to the Palace Theatre because I had never been there before.”
 
From the teachers and school staff, we’ve also received heartfelt feedback:
 
On confidence and self-belief:

 

“The children who participated wanted to share their journey in a school assembly. Other children have been asking them about their experience, and they’ve really enjoyed sharing their projects.” – Clacton
 
“One child’s attendance has improved, and she has volunteered to be an arts ambassador. A parent wrote to say what a positive impact the Heroes Journey had on her daughter.” – Manningtree
 
“I’ve noticed the children are standing taller, are happier within themselves, and are happy to talk about their experiences with more reflection and detail.” – Southend

On creative and emotional expression:

 

“I saw children creating and sharing experiences and ideas in a way I haven’t seen before.” – Clacton
 
“One boy has noticeably grown in confidence, which has impacted his ability to self-regulate.” – Manningtree
 
“The boys in particular seem more content and happier in class, interacting with others more openly and confidently.” – Southend
 
On collaboration and focus:

“The children are working more collaboratively.” – Clacton

 

“One boy is more able to self-regulate, which has been noticed across the school.” – Manningtree

 

“Teachers have commented that children from the group have shown more confidence and willingness to work with others.” – Southend

 

On specific moments/outcomes from the programme that stood out as particularly impactful or meaningful:

'

"There were so many moments of the programme that were wonderful that it is impossible
to pick one. I think that the weekly meetings were the highlight from my point of view, as
the children were given the time, space and incredible role models to let them shine" - Clacton

"The skilful way the Caedmon Trust drew the children’s ideas out and gave them just what they needed both materially and emotionally to be successful was meaningful for each child. The group built supportive and therapeutic relationships with the group and were hugely respectful of the children of the children at all times. Every child felt listened to and supported on their own unique creative journey. Seeing children share their Hero's journey in a theatre was massively impactful for the group" - Manningtree

 

"When observing children and the team, I noticed how fully engaged the children were in the activities they were undertaking. They seemed to be engrossed in the task at hand and their conversation seemed more detailed and relevant/focused" - Southend

 

On recommending the programme to other schools:

 

“Absolutely! This is the best programme we’ve ever participated in – thank you!” – Clacton

 

"I would definitely recommend this programme to settings with children who have experienced ACEs. It is one of the best programmes I have come across, and I wish we could offer this programme to more children! Steve and the team were a dream to work with, and as a school, we loved the fact that an overview of the 6-week journey was presented and then a plan for each week. We also appreciated the evaluation from the group after each session. This made staff feel we were working in partnership and also that the children were in safe hands. I literally can’t think of any improvements. From an educator's perspective, it was spot on! Lucky children and lucky staff to have had this fantastic experience," - Manningtree
 
“I would most definitely recommend this [programme to other schools who are working with children who have experienced ACEs – this programme provides children with a safe space to relax, to explore their ideas and to take a risk without fear of failure – being supported so well by the team. It is incredible to see how this impacts positively with children’s mental health and wellbeing." – Southend
 
"We are forever grateful to The Caedmon Company for their passion in providing experiences that help children develop their creativity and self-confidence. This trip was magical and will be remembered by all those who attended. Thanks to Steve and the team for coming to Essex and taking our children on a Hero’s Journey. What a journey it was!!!" The program has already made a lasting impact, and we’re excited to continue empowering children to discover their voices and celebrate their creativity." - Southend

 

 

Our incredible supporters – the heart behind everything we do: