Bristol Old Vic and Spilt Ink Theatre have been piloting free ESL (English as Second Language) and Drama classes for refugees and people with experience of migration, but we need support to continue delivering this project for the next 2 years, to offer more sessions, and remove barriers to access.

Categories

  • Arts/Culture/Heritage Arts/​Culture/​Heritage
  • Community Support & Development Community Support & Development
  • Education/Training/Employment Education/​Training/​Employment
  • Beneficiaries

    • Minority Groups Minority Groups
    • Refugees/Asylum Seekers Refugees/​Asylum Seekers
    • Women & Girls Women & Girls

    Across Bristol, refugees and people with experience of migration are determined to learn English, but they face barriers to access and over-subscribed English classes. Learning English is key to wellbeing and integration, from settling into the local community and talking with neighbors, to accessing vital support and everyday services such as healthcare, schools and transport. Those with low-level English proficiency are less likely to be employed and suffer from poorer health.

    Bristol Old Vic’s unique approach, in partnership with Spilt Ink combines language skills with play and performance, supporting confidence in speaking English and fostering a sense of community and wellbeing. After a successful pilot, we want to grow and guarantee the project for the next 2 years and remove barriers to access. Our programme also offers a safe space for participants to meet regularly, connect with other members of the Bristol Old Vic community and engage in the arts and theatre.

    Categories

  • Arts/Culture/Heritage Arts/​Culture/​Heritage
  • Community Support & Development Community Support & Development
  • Education/Training/Employment Education/​Training/​Employment
  • Beneficiaries

    • Minority Groups Minority Groups
    • Refugees/Asylum Seekers Refugees/​Asylum Seekers
    • Women & Girls Women & Girls