Inspire Program

INSPIRE: Creative Learning Access Program

“The students are so excited! A few kids haven't even been to the city, much less into a theatre!” 
Inspire Program Primary School Teacher

Barking Gecko Theatre is committed to providing high quality arts engagement for children regardless of their circumstance. 

Running across three years (2020 to 2022) our Inspire Program sees Barking Gecko work closely with principals and teachers from 28 primary schools located in low socio-economic suburbs, enriching students’ learning through theatre and creative learning.

Inspire Program Schools are provided with fully subsidised tickets and bus transportation, enabling students from Years 3 to 6 to attend Barking Gecko theatre productions. Prior to the excursion, teachers are provided with classroom activities and students participate in drama workshop delivered by a professional theatre artist.

Teachers also participate in Barking Gecko’s School Drama mentoring program. Working closely with professional theatre artists, School Drama develops the creative skills of teachers using drama and children’s literature. This in turn fosters dynamic and creative classrooms, transforming the academic and social outcomes of primary school students.

"Getting to bring our students to a Barking Gecko performance, and watch their reactions, is a clear highlight of my teaching career. For so many of our students this was truly a once in a lifetime experience...a wonderful, authentic learning experience that I never would have been able to provide for the students...I'm so grateful for our school to have been included."
Inspire Program Primary School Teacher