The Helen O'Grady Drama Academy explores mental health, friendship and emotions

Children from Littleborough upper (left) and Castleton lower (right) during their classes

Mental health, friendship and emotions were some of the topics touched upon during classes in October at The Helen O'Grady Drama Academy Oldham & Rochdale.

Coinciding with World Mental Health Day on 10 October, 120 children across the classes had the opportunity to take a moment to think about mental health. 

Principal Gemma Johnson said: “Our lower primary children looked at how to help a friend that may be sad, our upper primary students worked on a scene starter called 'Bad Day' which looked at how to support a friend who was having a difficult time.

“Our youth theatre students worked on a mini script called 'Social Media' which looked at the impact of social media upon friendships and well-being.”

“The drama activities created the opportunity to have a discussion about mental health, which made the children know that they have a safe space where they can share their thoughts, feelings and concerns. 

“Mental health can be a topic that children don't feel comfortable talking about and these activities helped to overcome that.

“They learnt how to be aware of their own mental health - in terms of emotions and the different things that can influence it, and also to become more sensitive to others.”

Earlier this year, The Helen O'Grady Drama Academy, as a worldwide organisation, celebrated the 40th anniversary of the first-ever class which took place in Perth, Australia.

• www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/129509/summer-plays-celebrate-end-of-year-at-helen-ogrady-drama-academy-oldham-and-rochdale

Since then, the developmental drama classes have gone from strength to strength, currently operating in 36 countries across the world.