feedback
Feedback on a devised performance project (2018)
“A truly wonderful project from start to finish and one that was completely inclusive for all of my class. I saw some reticent children take on roles that were challenging for them and saw them blossom. I observed some born leaders taking leadership roles and giving lots of encouragement to others. Heather’s expertise was invaluable. She had brilliant ideas and suggestions that we took on board and were able to implement. Nothing was too much trouble for her and I feel that her input helped to make the whole experience wonderful for all involved.” - P4-7 teacher
Feedback on a devised performance project (2018)
“The opportunity to develop our own story provided an excellent context for exploring and developing imaginative play and an understanding of how stories work. Every child participated in the project with great enthusiasm and energy.”
- P4/5 teacher
Feedback on a scripted performance project (2015)
“I could write a book about how much the children learned - the cross-curricular links were very robust.” - P5 teacher
Feedback from parents whose children participated in my pilot Perth Youth Theatre project for young people on the autistic spectrum (2012)
“It increased his confidence, he is more comfortable around other kids on the spectrum, and he would more than likely let us leave him there now but wouldn’t before.”
“He is more comfortable working in groups and made some great friendships which, for a child with autism, is a massive achievement.”
“He worked with older kids and he enjoyed mixing with some new people. He always left happy and he downloaded every activity experienced on the way home. He made a brand new friend too.”
“He absolutely loved the sessions, it was an opportunity to completely let go.”
“He initiated a conversation with a crowd (two people is a crowd to him) at school, he took the lead in decision making on numerous occasions and even coped on the busy Royal Mile in Edinburgh during the Festival! This is all as a result of the drama course.”
Audience feedback on a P1-2 Youth Theatre performance about going on an epic adventure (2010)
“Beautiful storytelling. Well done!”
“A fantastic performance. What energy!”
“Outstanding! I loved the show, the dancing and the scary dragon. Well done all!!”
“You make me happy!”
Feedback on a devised performance project (2018)
“Most of all, I enjoyed observing the children who were initially reticent or unsure as they gradually developed confidence in themselves as performers, began to value their own ideas and suggestions, and demonstrated trust both in themselves and each other.” - P6 teacher
Feedback on a day-long workshop about generating material as part of the devising process (2010)
“I have found today’s workshop inspirational and motivational for the children and I’ve seen a lot of learning taking place. The whole class are very excited about taking part in the Fife Schools Drama Festival now and are bubbling with ideas. I also feel that I’ve picked up quite a few tips and tricks to use in the future and am more equipped to lead the pupils on in preparing their performances. What a wonderful day - very worthwhile.”
- P7 teacher
Feedback from participants on my Making Storytime Interactive training sessions for nursery workers, primary teachers, support workers and artists within both mainstream and ASN education (2007)
“Heather’s examples from her practice were excellent.”
“The best parts were group activities and sharing ideas. It's amazing how many ideas sprung out which I could adapt to my own working situation.”
“The leader was friendly and inspirational.”
“There were loads of resources, it made everyone think. Ideas were bounced off and expanded.”
Participant feedback on a holiday Youth Theatre project (2010)
“I loved it and I would love to come back.”
“It wasn’t what I expected ... it was better!”
Feedback on a scripted performance project (2014)
“The benefits to the class are immeasurable. The pupils challenged themselves and succeeded beyond their expectations - what a confidence builder! Thank you for giving me this opportunity too. I can honestly say that it has been the most rewarding experience in my teaching career and I would recommend this opportunity to any teacher.” - P7 teacher
Feedback from P4 and P7 pupils after devising performances as part of their topic-based learning (2013)
“I learned to believe in myself.”
“I’m now capable of speaking in front of others.”
“I learned that you can always improve on things.”
“I realised that everyone was learning something new.”
Feedback from some members of my Community Cast who appeared in the NTS/TAG Theatre co-production of The Crucible (2006)
“They were the most enjoyable and inspiring rehearsals I have ever had! I think all us amateurs raised our game.”
“What were the highlights of this project for me? There are probably too many to list but one is certainly the comradeship of my peers. I decided we were the most fortunate cast of the whole tour because we were first when it was still very fresh and new.”
“The actual shows were the highlights for me. After I conquered my fears, I never wanted it to end.”
“Being part of this project made me feel liberated, excited, emotional, nervous, overwhelmed; exhilarated.”
“I will always have a great fondness and a feeling of being really lucky and extremely glad I was involved. The support, guidance, advice and comments offered - even the smallest - have stayed with me and have given me a confidence to pursue my goals.”
A newspaper feature about the impact of artists working in the classroom setting as part of my Education work with the National Theatre of Scotland on The Crucible (2006)
“It’s like a light coming on, and it has also reawakened my passion for being a teacher ... I’m a lone drama teacher. In school you feel restricted by following certain criteria, and over the years start to lose confidence. This experience has reassured me that you can stray off the path and be creative.”
- Secondary Drama teacher
Participant feedback on a Youth Theatre project (2008)
“I loved meeting new people. At the start I knew no-one, now I have so many new friends! I loved the chance to improvise on little stimulus! We really got to explore a lot.”
“I always looked forward to going each week. Can you please do this again?!”