Building Life Skills in Kids Through Performing Arts

With over 25 years of expertise as a leading educator, Razzamataz Theatre Schools has seen how the performing arts builds resilience, emotional and social growth in young people.

By stepping into creative roles, students learn to navigate challenges, adapt to new situations, and develop the confidence to persevere. These vital life skills extend far beyond the stage, preparing them to face the complexities of the modern world with strength and self-assurance.

Preparing for the future workforce

Critical for the workforce of the future, these skills help young people communicate effectively, work collaboratively, and approach problems with creativity and empathy.?

Research by the National Endowment for the Arts highlights the transformative role of arts education in inspiring, engaging, and empowering youth. It also underscores how arts education supports students' social and emotional learning needs, enabling them to thrive both academically and in life beyond school.

The unique value of performing arts

But what makes performing arts different from other subjects, and how can we ensure that it is accessible to all??

Throughout our time at Razzamataz, one thing has stood out very clearly: children and young people can excel as both academic and creative individuals. In fact, the skills they gain through the arts such as resilience, teamwork, and leadership are transferable to every aspect of their lives. These qualities not only help them succeed in school but also prepare them for the challenges of the modern workforce, creating well-rounded, confident individuals.?

Making performing arts accessible to all ensures that every child has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their background.

Transforming young lives through the arts

One of the most rewarding aspects of Razzamataz for Principals and teachers is seeing how the arts can transform young lives, providing opportunities and opening their eyes to a world of possibilities.?

We have countless stories from former students who, as adults, reflect on their time at Razzamataz and recognise how the life skills and confidence they developed enabled them to pursue their goals and build successful careers.

One example is Jessica, a former student from a low income family who went on to become a UK parliamentary and policy advisor and UN Ambassador. She was also recognised as one of the UK’s top 100 outstanding future leaders of African & African Caribbean descent.?

This is an essential step in social mobility and diverse leadership and as she explains, she found her confidence through performing arts participation:

“My world became much bigger through the arts and was one of the greatest gifts I could ever have as a young person.”?

When young people engage in the arts, they explore human emotions and learn to express complex feelings while navigating conflict in a way that feels less intimidating than in the "real world." By stepping into the shoes of different characters, they develop empathy and a deeper understanding of others' perspectives. This experience not only enhances their emotional intelligence but also fosters compassion, an invaluable trait for the leaders of tomorrow.

Conclusion

Recognising how the performing arts can complement other academic subjects in schools is key to shaping resilient, well-rounded young people ready to thrive in an ever-evolving world.?

While we understand the challenges schools face, the arts provide a unique opportunity to develop the emotional intelligence and character traits necessary for future leaders.?

In today’s fast-paced world, resilience stands out as one of the most critical qualities for young people to achieve emotional fulfillment and success in the workplace, and the arts are instrumental in cultivating this.

Contact the Head Office on [email protected]?or visit: https://www.razzamataz.co.uk/?

Author: Denise Gosney , Managing Director at Razzamataz Theatre Schools .