bold Arts programme transformation

Collaborative Innovation at VSA

Since joining VSA, I’ve taken deliberate action for the transformation of the Primary Performing Arts department through strategic, cross-disciplinary collaboration. Many of the initiatives now central to our program didn’t exist three years ago—and I’ve worked intentionally to build them.

Technology & Innovation

I initiated design-thinking projects like shadow puppetry, where students created characters that were fabricated using advanced tech tools. I also introduced AI-enhanced storytelling: Year 1 students’ artwork became animated backdrops, and we composed original songs using AI collaboration. In 2025, I partnered with the Tech and Art departments to have a professional animator bring Year 1 artwork to life for the Christmas show. I’ve also aligned our character choices with STEM values—celebrating girls in innovation-focused roles.

Inclusive Directing, Transformative Theatre

Drama, Art & Music Collaboration

I have had the privilege of directing students across a wide spectrum of ages, abilities and backgrounds—from young learners taking their first steps on stage, to English as an Additional Language (EAL) students finding confidence through performance, to A‑Level candidates refining their craft at an advanced level. My approach is always inclusive and adaptive, ensuring that every student, regardless of their starting point, feels supported, challenged and inspired. Whether guiding a large ensemble or mentoring individuals, I create rehearsal spaces where creativity, collaboration and personal growth are at the heart of the process.

theatre-making: taught by an active practitioner

I believe the best way to learn theatre is by doing it. My approach to teaching theatre-making centers on giving students practical, real-world experiences. At Invicta, a program led by Jan Brink, I facilitated a specialised workshop on producing and marketing. Students stepped into the roles of theatre producers—developing promotional strategies, budgeting, and planning logistics. It was a dynamic, hands-on experience that gave them a taste of the professional theatre world and empowered them to see themselves as creators.

Design, Fabrication & Tech-Enhanced Storytelling

From Concept to Construction

I specialize in guiding students through the full creative arc from concept to construction by integrating set design, puppetry, and technology into the theatre-making process. Whether students are building immersive sets, crafting shadow puppets, or designing animated backdrops, I help them transform ideas into tangible, theatrical experiences. These projects often involve collaboration with tech departments, where students use digital fabrication tools and AI-enhanced media to bring their visions to life. This approach fosters design thinking, artistic autonomy, and interdisciplinary learning—skills that align powerfully with the DP Theatre curriculum and prepare students to innovate across artistic and academic domains.

I served as the set design specialist at the AISL APAC Theatre Festival in 2018, where I facilitated hands‑on workshops guiding students in creative and practical approaches to stagecraft.

Fostering community through arts

Whole School Community

In my first year, I led the set design for Seusical JR, inviting students, staff, and families to contribute. This school-wide collaboration set the tone for a culture of shared ownership and creative unity. My leadership has been intentional, documented, and impactful—driving innovation, inclusion, and community connection through the arts.

Every Unit, Every Learner: Expanding the Boundaries of Inquiry

Inquiry-based Theatre Education & UDL (Universal Design for Learning)

While the requirement was to link one unit to a Unit of Inquiry (UOI), I’ve gone further—connecting every single unit through inquiry-based learning. I’ve shared this framework with my performing arts colleagues, whom have adopted it in their own classes. This has created a ripple effect of innovation across our drama department, strengthening our shared pedagogical approach. I am currently exploring Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and in just a few months it has completely transformed my pedagogy—opening up new ways to reach every learner, with so much more still to discover and apply.