In Year 2 of Explore (2020-21), 15 schools were supposed to receive a performance from Theatre in Schools Scotland as well as visit the Edinburgh International Children's Festival in May.
With live performance on hold and restrictions in schools, Year 2 became a year to get creative and work together to ensure the arts were still available to schools.
Participating schools this year included:
In West Lothian - Dedridge Primary, Greenrig Primary, St Joseph's RC Primary, St Mary's RC Primary, St Columba's Primary, Kirknewton Primary and St Thomas' Primary.
In Midlothian - Rosewell Primary, St Matthews Primary and Sacred Heart RC Primary.
In Edinburgh - Hermitage Park Primary, Bonaly Primary, St Andrews Fox Covert Primary, Pirniehall Primary and Duddingston Primary.
In Scottish Borders - Duns Primary
A Small Tale by Punchdrunk
11 classes were given the chance to take part in A Small Tale, a teacher-led adventure, by Punchdrunk Engagement, in which children read a picture book about two mischievous characters who then disappear, leaving tiny footprints on the blank pages. Children are then tasked to rescue them by writing stories.
Potato Needs a Bath by Shona Reppe
Theatre in Schools Scotland commissioned a reworking of Shona Reppe’s Potato Needs a Bath for nursery and P1. This was offered to all Explore schools and 584 children took part in this interactive part film, part live stream from their classroom.
"The children were highly motivated by the film, and looked forward excitedly to Potato’s party! The livestream party brought on a personal touch with Shona Reppe (Maris Piper) engaging really well with the children and their choice of vegetable and fruit guests!"
Rapunzel by National Theatre of Scotland
All schools were also given free access to National Theatre of Scotland’s Rapunzel which was made available online in the run up to Christmas.
Edinburgh International Children's Festival
450 children from 3 of the Explore schools also took part in the Festival enjoying a range of shows within the programme.
"Overall a fabulous project that has been enjoyed by everyone"