We won the prize for our two-day Romeo and Juliet school takeover in June 2019, where the students explored the play's themes, characters and key scenes using technology specially tailored to their individual needs.

Students were transported into the world of Romeo and Juliet using Samsung virtual reality headsets, 360° cameras and a multi-sensory room. They had a go at digital costume design and created soundscapes using music editing apps on Samsung Galaxy tablets, while different parts of the school were transformed into locations from the play. Props and interactive projections allowed the students to physically explore the play’s language, themes and setting through sight, smell, taste, touch and sound. 

The BETT awards celebrate the creative and innovative use of technology in education. The judges were particularly impressed by the impact that the project had on the whole school, with over 180 students at Welcombe Hills taking part. The school supports young people aged 3-19 who have a range of additional needs and is the first Lead Special School in our Associate Schools Programme, which aims to widen access to Shakespeare’s work, live theatre and theatre-making.

Jo Bradley, the Assistant Headteacher at Welcombe Hills School, said about the experience: “The school was buzzing with excitement. The pupils were challenged and inspired. Teachers found new, creative approaches which could be used across the whole of the curriculum.”

You can see more about the Romeo and Juliet takeover in the video below: