University of Sunderland's LearningBods bring lessons to life

Led by researchers at the University of Sunderland, the LearningBods scheme uses live performance workshops to engage Key Stage 1 pupils through storytelling and movement.

Around 200 university students and 10,000 primary pupils have taken part in the scheme over the past 10 years.

Performing arts student from the University of Sunderland take part in performing Numberbods at St Mary’s Primary School (Image: David James Wood)

Sarah Riach, associate head of school for arts, design and performance at the University of Sunderland, said: "Over the last 10 years, the NumberBods project and the wider LearningBods initiative have had a profound impact on learning across Sunderland, enriching the educational experiences of young children, while also providing invaluable, real-world creative opportunities for our students.

"By embedding performance, movement and storytelling into the curriculum, the project has demonstrated how kinaesthetic and arts-based approaches can deepen understanding, build confidence and engage diverse learning styles in meaningful ways."

Designed to support Key Stage 1 children aged five to seven, the workshops cover curriculum areas such as maths (NumberBods), science (ScienceBods), sustainability (EcoBods) and health (HealthyBods).

Performing arts student from the University of Sunderland take part in performing Numberbods at St Mary’s Primary School (Image: David James Wood)

There is a strong focus on embodied learning and creativity, both for primary pupils and for the university’s performing arts students, who help deliver the performances.

Ms Riach said: "Key takeaways from the research show that embodied learning not only enhances educational outcomes for children, but also strengthens collaboration, creativity, and employability skills for our students, reinforcing the power of the arts as a catalyst for educational innovation across the city."

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the project, with performances delivered in multiple schools throughout January, including St Mary’s Catholic Primary School in Sunderland.

Performing arts student from the University of Sunderland take part in performing Numberbods at St Mary’s Primary School (Image: David James Wood)

Martin Clephane, headteacher at St Mary’s, said: "It has been great to have the students from the University of Sunderland work with our children for the second year running.

"The bespoke choreographed dance performance and subsequent activities were all designed around the Key Stage 1 curriculum, with this year's focus on maths.

"It brought learning to life in an engaging, fun and active way.

"It has proved to be a wonderful opportunity for our Year 1 children to work alongside university students, not only learning maths and dance but also as careers education by creating this important link with our amazing local university."

The performances are delivered by students from the University of Sunderland, guided by staff including Sarah Riach and Rachel Emms, programme leader for BA (Hons) Performing Arts.

Ms Emms said: "The most significant feedback from the schools is always that the children who struggle in a classroom setting are able to engage with the performance and workshop.

"The interactive nature of the performance allows children to take risks in shouting out an answer or responding physically to a problem.

"The environment created is one of curiosity and excitement, bringing learning to life."

She also highlighted the value of LearningBods for her students.

Ms Emms said: "From an academic perspective, the students are building an awareness of the possibilities offered through performing arts – their research considers creative approaches to make meaning.

"Once they graduate, the skills they have developed throughout the process helps them to become adaptable in touring venues, communication and collaboration."

One former student who took part in LearningBods has since returned to the classroom in a different role.

Summer Hatton, who performed with the project in 2018, is now a teacher at St Mary’s.

Ms Hatton said: "When I was at the University of Sunderland, being given the opportunity to be part of LearningBods was an insight into a career I didn't know could be possible for me.

"This particular element of my degree at the University allowed me to unlock a career where I can use my creativity to shape young minds."