Celebrating Sacred Heart’s First Year of RSC Young Ambassadors’ Training
- Michael Donnelly
- May 23
- 2 min read
We are proud to share the success of our very first cohort of RSC Young Ambassadors here in Newcastle. Launched in October 2024, the programme brought together 16 creative and talented Year 9 students, each of whom had previously taken part in RSC-related projects and were keen to deepen their involvement.
Since their selection, our Ambassadors have played a vital role in promoting Shakespeare’s work across our school. They have become well known advocates for the continuing relevance and enjoyment of Shakespeare’s plays. As part of their journey, they took part in bespoke training delivered through the RSC Associate Schools Programme, to help them build essential skills in leadership, communication, teamwork, and creative thinking. These skills are not only vital for their work as Ambassadors, but will also benefit them across all areas of school life and future opportunities.
In December, the Ambassadors ran a series of one-hour workshops for our Year 7 and 8 students. These sessions were designed, planned, and delivered entirely by the Ambassadors, who adapted Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Romeo and Juliet to support younger students with their English studies. The workshops were a huge success and gave the Ambassadors practical experience in organising and delivering events for a specific age group.
January brought a real highlight, as we welcomed our Ambassador Leader, Freddy Goymer and our Associate School Developer, Esther Leith for an intensive training day. This full-day session focused on what it means to be a leader and the key qualities needed to represent the RSC. It was a truly inspiring experience, and the students returned to school with renewed purpose, wearing their Ambassador badges with great pride.
February was one of the busiest months of the year for our team. The Ambassadors planned and delivered a whole-year assembly to all of Year 8, performing to over 250 students and staff in our auditorium. Their presentation was clear, confident, and full of energy. They introduced themselves, explained their role, and promoted the opportunity for students to get involved in our upcoming Playmaker Festival.
As we look ahead to the summer term, rehearsals for the Playmaker Festival are now in full swing. The Ambassadors, alongside other students, are preparing for what promises to be a fantastic celebration of Shakespeare’s work at our theatre partner, Northern Stage. We also hope to present a display in the theatre’s foyer, showcasing the journey and achievements of the team throughout the year.
Back in school, our English Department is preparing for its annual Shakespeare Day, and we know our Ambassadors will be eager to take part and support younger students once again.
We are incredibly proud of everything our RSC Young Ambassadors have achieved this year. Their energy, dedication, and leadership have had a real impact on our school community and we can’t wait to see what they do next.
Follow the link below to read all about Fatima’s experience as an Ambassador this year, reported on the RSC website.
