Theatre & Arts Project with ESOL Level 1 Students

Our ESOL Level 1 students have been creatively inspired over the past nine weeks, while taking part in a theatre and arts project. This project was a collaboration with The Arts Theatre Cambridge, Cambridge Curiosity and Imagination and Phosphorus Theatre. The Arts Theatre are on the journey to become a Theatre of Sanctuary, and as a College of Sanctuary, this marks the beginning of a long-term partnership with CRC.

Students were encouraged to embrace their creative sides through a series of different art-based sessions. On the Nature Walks, they disconnected from their phones and went into nature, focusing on the sights and sounds around them, while learning about the different types of bird song we hear in the UK from a bird specialist. They were able to take their time and relax, to sketch scenes from the natural world, and to speak English with other students in an un-pressured environment.

“The recent nature walks have been such a treat! I did many interesting things, and I really enjoyed them. One of the best things I did is drawing by the lake. It was sunny, and in the lake there were some snow-white beautiful swans which were playing in the water. It was fun to watch. I was so inspired by them, so I started to draw them. They even came out of the water, and we fed them. When I finished with the drawing, I also painted the picture which turned out pretty and colourful: drawing felt peaceful, fun and satisfying.” – ESOL student

“One of my favourite moments was when I climbed a big tree near the lake. The tree was strong and tall, and from the top I could see the water shining in the sun. I took some photos because the view was beautiful. My teacher was a bit worried about me, but I was careful, and everything was fine. I felt proud that I could do it! Another fun activity was sitting on the grass to relax and listen to the birds. The sound of nature made me feel calm and happy. I also tried to draw the lake and the trees in my notebook. My friend drew too, and we laughed a lot because her picture of a squirrel looked funny.” – ESOL student

Next, Art Sessions with Cambridge Curiosity and Imagination introduced them to the world of graphic novels, encouraging creativity, reflection, and a sense of peace and wellbeing. These artworks are on display in E corridor at the Cambridge Campus.

This hand-drawn graphic story is a heartfelt and inspiring piece created by Ahmed, a student from Sudan who arrived in the UK in 2024. Despite being new to the country, Ahmed has already made remarkable academic progress and aspires to become a cyber-security specialist—an ambition reflected in his determination and creativity.

The comic itself tells a powerful story. It begins with a scene of bullying, where a small child is pressured to hand over his ball. Despite the conflict, the story takes a meaningful turn. As the comic progresses, the aggressor realises the harm he’s caused and apologises sincerely. The final panels show the two characters connecting, talking openly – transforming the moment from conflict to friendship. 

The artworks displayed are the result of these rich experiences — new perspectives, new skills, and new paths forward.

By the seventh week, Drama Sessions with Phosphorus Theatre gave students the opportunity to express themselves more freely, strengthening their confidence and their voices. Phosphorus Theatre’s vision is inspiring: “Refugee stories are all around. Our vision is that these stories are amplified and heard. We collaborate with people with lived experience – as artists, audiences, activists, participants and partners, and invite the wider public to listen and advocate for change.”

This project has helped the group bond, opened up conversations, and strengthened confidence. Students that were previously a little shy or less confident with speaking English have been able to develop their language skills in a creative and inspiring environment.

Thank you to all our students, our collaborative partners at the Arts Theatre, Phosphorus Theatre and Cambridge Curiosity and Imagination, and our ESOL Study Program Course Leader Lola Freeman, for a brilliant project!

Find more information about our ESOL courses here.