CHILDREN who take part in drama have a head start on others in both learning and life, says Theatre Royal Winchester’s new community outreach manager.

Charlotte Hall is re-launching Young Theatre Royal, a range of theatre groups for young people around Hampshire which she says can help improve literacy and attainment in other subjects.

Charlotte said: “The focus in schools is being put quite heavily on English, maths and science and therefore other subjects are getting less focus.

“Lots of Research has shown that arts activities such as drama improve performance in other subjects.

“My job is to ensure that as many people as possible in Winchester and surrounding areas are able to participate in creative activities.

"A large part of this is looking after Young Theatre Royal and making sure our schools have access to artistic provision.

“Teachers do a fantastic job with often limited time and resources.

"We want to work in partnership with schools to enhance the learning of their students and give young people the best educational opportunities possible.”

Some of the young people Charlotte has worked with keep in contact and have told her how they have benefitted from drama in the world of work.

“They can express themselves and they are confident,” says Charlotte.

“Drama is the one subject in which you learn to work with other people, you learn to negotiate, to take on other people’s ideas, and that’s so important.

"One of the main things employers need from their employees is the ability to communicate and work together.”

To run the theatre groups, Theatre Royal Winchester uses a pool of artists who have a lot of experience working in the industry and as practitioners and educators.

Rural groups cover ages from 7 to 17 and take place in Bishops Waltham, Denmead, The Wallops, West Meon, Whitchurch and South Wonston.

In Winchester itself, there are various groups specialising in drama and in musicals.

They range from open groups for six to eight-year-olds to The Players, a group for young adults interested in a career in theatre, for which there are open auditions at Theatre Royal on September 7 at 6pm.

There is also a new group inspired by Hat Fair for that will teach street art and circus skills.

All members of Young Theatre Royal also benefit from ticket offers and receive a free exclusive T-shirt.