Boost! Building Creative Confidence for Kids

Boost! is Covert Theatre's school holiday programme for children aged 8–12, using improvisation to help kids shake off the fear of failure and tap into their natural creativity. The week-long programme runs across summer holidays and school term breaks, with up to 20 children per intake.

Designed by Covert Theatre artistic director Wade Jackson, the sessions focus on real life skills — self-awareness, collaboration, storytelling and freedom from judgement — wrapped up in a genuinely playful environment. It is taught by a pair of experienced educator-performers: Nik Edwards, a qualified primary school teacher and long-time Covert company member, and Gill Berry, who brings over two decades of improv experience alongside a specialist drama teaching background.

The programme suits children with no performing arts experience just as readily as those who already love the stage. The week finishes with an optional 60-minute show on the Friday afternoon, giving kids a chance to share what they have built together.