Blind Side theatre production tours Tameside primary schools

An impactful theatre production has returned to Tameside schools to educate young people on violence against women and girls (VAWG).

The ‘Blind Side’ production by Breaking Barriers, commissioned by Tameside Council Public Health and Community Safety Partnership, is a monologue following teenager Summer as she navigates difficult relationships, controlling behaviour, and hurtful comments.

The production revisited primary schools this April and secondary schools in November 2025 during the 16 Days of Action as part of the White Ribbon campaign.

Schools that welcomed the production this month include Millbrook Primary School, Denton West End Primary School, Moorside Primary Academy, and Audenshaw Primary School.

Blind Side was developed in consultation with over 1000 young people from across the borough and has been delivered to over 3500 students in years five to eight so far across Tameside and in some areas of Rochdale and Salford. Feedback from teachers and pupils has been incredibly positive.

The performance introduces schoolchildren to issues of violence against women and girls and raises awareness of harmful attitudes. It is followed by a facilitated discussion, looking at key themes from the production and how they apply to real life.

Pupils consider ideas around peer pressure and healthy relationships, and support is signposted to them. They are encouraged to share their own views on the piece and what they have learned.

A pre-film is also shown to the young people to introduce them to VAWG topics and allow them to share their thoughts in a safe space.

The council commissioned the tour as part of its wider work to tackle VAWG and domestic abuse.

Tameside Council’s Assistant Director of Education & Inclusion, Emlyn Wright said: “It’s been incredibly powerful to see the Blind Side production performed in our schools.

“Watching the young people engage so openly with the themes shows just how important early education is in shaping respectful attitudes in a safe and supportive environment.

“Violence against women and girls is never acceptable and must be prevented, challenged, and eradicated in all its forms. By introducing these conversations at a young age, we are helping pupils build the confidence and awareness they need to navigate their relationships as they grow.

“I’m proud that Tameside is investing in this vital work and grateful to the schools and young people who embraced the production so thoughtfully.”

For support, see www.tameside.gov.uk/domesticabuse.