Guildford Shakespeare Company marks 20 years by expanding life-changing knife crime awareness work

Not only celebrating its 20th year in 2026, Guildford Shakespeare Company’s pioneering knife crime awareness programme has reached over 2,000 young people in its first term.

Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2026, Guildford Shakespeare Company (GSC) is not only reflecting on two decades of bold, accessible theatre but also reaffirming its commitment to young people across Surrey through a pioneering knife crime awareness initiative.

And at the centre of this work is its eight-week awareness programme for Year 9 students – Put Up Your Swords.

Using Romeo and Juliet as a framework to explore the realities of knife crime, the scheme encourages young people to examine choices, consequences and safer alternatives within a supportive environment.

Delivered in partnership with the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey, the University of Surrey, Fearless, the Kiyan Prince Foundation and Charlie’s Promise, the project combines drama workshops, professional stage combat training, guest speakers with lived experience, and a mock court case hosted at the University of Surrey – where Romeo himself stands trial.

Since its launch, Put Up Your Swords has reached more than 2,000 students across six Surrey schools, and an independent evaluation shows a marked shift in knowledge and attitudes.

By the end of the programme, 83% of participants understood that carrying a knife does not make them safer – up from 50% at the outset – while 74% knew where to access support, compared with 35% before taking part.

Teachers have described the initiative as both worthwhile and transformative, highlighting its ability to engage students who may struggle in more traditional classroom settings.

Kerrie Driscoll, GSC’s Creative Learning Producer, said: “Too many young people face life-changing consequences because they didn’t believe they had safer choices. That’s why working hand-in-hand with partner organisations, schools, local authorities, and our wider community is vital.

“Together, we can provide the guidance and real alternatives that help young people step away from danger and reduce the devastating impact of knife-related violence.”

The company plans to expand Put Up Your Swords to reach more schools across Surrey and beyond.

For more information or to get involved, contact Kerrie Driscoll at kerrie@guildford-shakespeare-company.co.uk.

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