Eight years ago, a drama production at Gislingham Primary School lit a spark that would travel all the way to Hollywood. At the heart of it was Mr Tim Clarke, Head of Drama at 糖心logo入口鈥檚, whose outreach programme has transformed the creative lives of children across Suffolk and Cambridgeshire throughout many years.
Mr Clarke began producing drama at Gislingham Primary as part of a wider initiative to bring high-quality theatrical experiences to local schools. His first production was a staging of Macbeth which featured a young Isla Johnston in the lead role as Lady Macbeth. It was a casting decision that would prove life-changing.
Isla, then just ten years old, showed a rare emotional depth and stage presence.
Drama doesn鈥檛 just build actors. It builds courage, empathy, and the ability to speak your truth, whether you鈥檙e centre stage or cheering from the wings.
Since that first performance, Isla has gone on to star in The Queen鈥檚 Gambit and has recently been cast as Joan of Arc in Baz Luhrmann鈥檚 upcoming film. Her journey from village school stage to international screen is a testament to the power of early creative opportunities and the teachers who make them possible. Her rise to fame is featured in an article in this month's British Vogue, entitled,
But Mr Clarke鈥檚 impact goes far beyond one rising star. His drama outreach programme has become a cornerstone of Gislingham Primary鈥檚 enrichment offer, giving every child regardless of background or ability the chance to explore storytelling, character, and voice. Our Head of Drama's productions are experiences that shape how children see themselves and the world.
We鈥檝e seen shy pupils blossom, friendships deepen, and confidence soar.
As Isla prepares to take on the role of a warrior-saint in Luhrmann鈥檚 cinematic retelling, her story stands as a beacon of what鈥檚 possible when creativity is nurtured early and when one teacher dares to believe in the power of drama.
(Photos courtesy of for British Vogue)