Drilling Diamonds
Newham (2025-2026)
Our flagship youth project, Drilling Diamonds, came to schools in Newham in 2025 as part of the government’s SAFE Taskforce initiative.
Through ten, 2 hour sessions of improvised performance, storytelling and creative writing the groups explored challenging relationships in a fun environment. We used our unique blend of drama techniques and conflict resolution strategies to develop a sense of community, which fostered positive relationships and wellbeing.
Between January 2025 and July 2026, we delivered our Drilling Diamonds programme to Year 9, 10, and 11 pupils across four Newham schools: Kingsford Community School, Little Ilford School, School 21, and Education Links.
Michael Amaning, Head of Drama at School 21
The average reduction in negative incidents from pupils taking part is over 60%, with one student's reducing by 86%.
Miss Surtani, Subject Leader of Dance, Kingsford Community School
“We’ve seen some real changes in the young people involved. Gradually, they became more open and willing to make themselves vulnerable in ways we hadn’t seen before. One pupil who previously defaulted to “I don’t know” now is willing to contribute in class on occasion, and answer questions with increasing confidence. Attendance remains a challenge across the group, but on Playing ON days, every single one of them showed up - and they were genuinely excited to be there. Several students thanked us personally for arranging it, telling us the experience made them feel understood and helped them see the more positive side of what school can offer.”
If you are interested in Drilling Diamonds at your school or college, please email Rhian@playingon.org.uk.