A Shakespeare School will double in size this year - but not one local teacher will be involved in the project.

There will be 60 teachers and arts educators from across the country joining with the RSC and Shakespeare scholars and guest artists.

The new system is said to ‘deepen and enrich’ the work of the Prince of Wales Shakespeare School by having all-year contact with those taking part after they have left Stratford.

The aim of the summer school is to introduce the educators to new ways of taking Shakespeare with specialised workshops, working with the Shakespeare Institute and Birthplace Trust; introductions to RSC Summer Festival season productions, use of IT, and confidence building to develop different creative routes into Shakespeare’s work.

Clare Venables, RSC Director of Education, said:

“It is now accepted that it is not appropriate to teach Shakespeare solely as literature. A student's grasp of the language is greatly enhanced through an understanding of the text as performance. 

“Theatre plays a crucial role in uncovering the great rewards that Shakespeare can offer.

“There are many parallels between working with Shakespeare as actors and directors and working with Shakespeare as teachers. These can also provide an inspiring route into teaching Shakespeare.

“By doubling the number of people taking part in the school and through the new network system, the Prince of Wales Shakespeare School will provide long term support to those exploring Shakespeare with young people."