The Top-Up year program engages students in independent and proactive work, involving advanced analysis, critical reflection, and evaluation of performance and project materials, both within Chickenshed and through Outreach Projects.
The programme consists of three modules, with 60 credits for Module 1, 30 credits for Module 2, and 30 credits for Module 3, totalling 120 credits to complete the Degree. Higher Education typically measures progress in credits.
Module One allows students to create a devised issue-based performance for various community target groups to generate impact and receive feedback, facilitating adaptation and improvement of the piece.
Module Two empowers students to plan, deliver, and evaluate an inclusive theatre workshop project for an identified target group.
Module Three focuses on employability and placement, providing an opportunity to acquire employability skills and engage in a short professional placement.
These workshops prioritise understanding the needs of the target group in relation to the wider community and promoting social inclusion. The skills acquired during the year will not only support professional development but also have the potential to leave a lasting impact on the people involved. Additionally, students will benefit from regular skills-specific training sessions with experts in the field, gain insights into various professions within the Arts, and participate in at least two of Chickenshed's public performances to enrich their training experience.
Student experiences
"Chickenshed gave me the confidence to learn new skills while making friends along the way"