Lead Theatre Facilitator (Schools Programme)

The Habbit Factory is an inclusive arts organisation founded in 2004 situated in the London Borough of Havering and also working in Barking & Dagenham.

Our philosophy is centred around the belief that everyone, irrespective of their abilities or background, is welcomed. We collaborate with children and young people across multiple programmes to create performances that entertain and challenge stigma amongst the audience.

Our motto "where everyone can have their moment in the spotlight" aligns with our vision of an inclusive world, where theatre is accessible to all. Our approach of not conducting auditions to take part, reflects this ideology.

Our core charitable work is split across two programmes:

• Membership Programme: weekly after‑school inclusive creative and drama classes, targeted at CYP experiencing societal and financial disadvantage: 3‑6yrs, 7‑11yrs and 12‑17yrs.
• Education & Outreach Programme: targeted programme of engagement with local schools, charities and the local authority providing CPD training and addressing complex subjects e.g., mental health, disability, and antisocial behaviour.

Job Description

Job Title – Lead Theatre Facilitator (Schools Programme)

Contract Type – Fixed‑term freelance

Reporting to – Arts Engagement Manager

Project Fee – £2,048 per month (equivalent to £210 per day, based on 3 days per week, term time only across 39 weeks).

Where – 3 schools in the RM3 Postcode (Closest Train Station is Harold Wood)

The total project fee is £28,660, paid in monthly instalments across the delivery period upon the receipt of an invoice. The August 2027 reporting period (3 additional days) will be paid separately upon completion.

Working Pattern

June – July 2026

7 weeks, 3 days per week (term time only)

Hours: 8:30am – 4:30pm

September 2026 – July 2027

7 weeks, 3 days per week (term time only)

Hours: 8:30am – 4:30pm

Includes workshop delivery, planning and preparation time

August 2027

3 days allocated for reporting and dissemination

About the Role

The Habbit Factory is seeking a Lead Theatre Facilitator to deliver a high‑quality, inclusive drama programme as part of a funded Arts Council England project.

This role will lead weekly delivery across three primary schools in Harold Hill (RM3), working with Year 5 and 6 pupils to support their transition into secondary school. The programme is embedded within the school day and uses drama as a tool to build confidence, develop social skills and support emotional wellbeing.

We are looking for a practitioner with a strong, socially engaged creative practice, who believes in the power of theatre to create meaningful change. You will plan and lead engaging, responsive workshops that are shaped by the needs, voices and experiences of the young people you are working with.

Working alongside a pastoral facilitator, you will create a safe, inclusive environment where all young people feel supported to explore, express themselves and take creative risks.

Alongside delivery, you will contribute to the ongoing development of the programme through reflection, evaluation and collaboration with school staff and the wider project team.

Key Requirements

• Experience delivering drama or arts‑based workshops with children and young people, particularly in school or community settings
• Experience of facilitating inclusive practice with children with a range of needs, including SEND and those experiencing barriers to engagement
• Strong commitment to child‑centred, participatory creative practice and amplifying young people’s voices
• Passion for working with children and young people, including those with complex or challenging life experiences
• Clear belief in the power of the arts to support confidence, wellbeing and social development
• Strong understanding of safeguarding and experience working with vulnerable groups
• Strong background or training in performing arts, facilitation and/or teaching
• Ability to facilitate creatively in real time, responding to participant needs and adapting delivery dynamically
• Experience working in school environments or a strong understanding of school systems and expectations
• Confidence in delivering inclusive and accessible practice, including working with children with additional needsStrong organisational and communication skills
• Strong written and verbal English skills, with the ability to document sessions, write brief reports and track participant progress
• Ability to maintain consistent attendance, punctuality and reliability across a sustained delivery programme
• Commitment to inclusive practice and the values of The Habbit Factory
• Experience working in or alongside school environments, with an understanding of school systems, safeguarding expectations and classroom dynamics
• Knowledge of the area and communities local to The Habbit Factory

This job description is a guide for the nature of work required for this role and does not form part of an employment contract.

#J-18808-Ljbffr