From Art to Belief

: How Playwriting Through Partnership Learning Can Raise the Agency of Young People Deprived of Opportunities

Abstract

This thesis explores the central question of whether playwriting in a partnership-learning relationship with low-opportunity young people can successfully raise agency long-term. Through the introduction of a new research methodology termed Organic Method, this study worked with a group of young people within a professional theatre setting to write short plays which were then performed in a theatre. This study employed a longitudinal, qualitative study which incorporated a four-year period of working with the same young people, a proportion of whom wrote in two further showcases. The evaluative process revolved around student retention and interview. The research found that agency within the group was raised significantly through the process of writing the play, according to the participants. It argues that three central pillars were integral to an increase of agency. Those are trust, efficacy and the non-teaching teacher and community. This study argues the case for learning in partnership, mentor to mentee with high connectors for long term increase in agency. It also lobbies for the incorporation of the triumvirate of trust, efficacy and the non-teaching teacher within more mainstream schools when attempting to raise agency. The thesis therefore makes a case for using Organic Method with a model of playwriting, narrative education and storytelling for re-engaging young people of low opportunity with their learning potential.

Date of Award	31 Jan 2025
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	University of Winchester
Supervisor	Wayne Veck (Supervisor) & Tim Prentki (Supervisor)