Drama is one of the most powerful tools within the special educational curriculum.
It allows students to explore feelings, situations and stories without judgment, or worry of failing. It gives students a chance to learn and share stories. When beginning this project I knew that a play specifically written with SEN students in mind was vital to the project.
From my own teaching of special needs students, I have seen how some of the most vulnerable have been manipulated by people on the internet. It was vital that this story was clear and to the point about Breck and the effects of online grooming. This version of the Breck story deals less with the emotions of the Breck story and more with the literal event, making it ideal for autistic children.
It is perfect for a small drama or English group, and is designed to be presented to another group or in an assembly. The idea behind this play is to educate as many people as possible.
The play, compared to the other books I have created, is much more about the feelings and reactions of people surrounding Breck, as well as delivering the tragic story of Breck. I wanted the young people to understand that it wasn’t just Breck who was affected by this tragedy, but that it had a devastating ripple effect on others.
Equally, the play gives the audience a chance to look at times when things may have been able to be stopped, if people had known more or been educated more.
The play comes with a six-week scheme of work and worksheets to help support and consolidate learning for students. I can’t wait to see how young people, different schools and drama groups interpret this story.
I hope it becomes a useful tool for everyone and helps young people understand the dangers of online ‘friendships’.