Piper Arts Centre, Prior’s Court’s unique, purpose-built performing arts facility, has hosted its first ever winter production - an ambitious and imaginative staging of The Polar Express involving every young person at Prior's Court.

Term 2 in Piper Arts Centre was dedicated to creating a special production, with young people featuring across a blend of pre-recorded green-screen footage and live performance to bring the story to life. The project enabled involvement in a wide range of creative roles - from performing to prop and scenery making - ensuring full participation in some way from every young person in the School and Young Adult Provision.

The work culminated in three performances held on 2, 3 and 10 December. The first show welcomed live performances from Lower School young people, followed by Post-16 young people taking to the performance space on Wednesday, 3 December. The final performance on Thursday, 10 December showcased the talents of the Young Adult Provision, completing the trilogy of festive events.

Watch an edit of the performances:

A combination of families of young people at Prior's Court, staff members, and special guests were the audience for the event, with Santa Claus also making an appearance too.

Helen Franks, Prior's Court School Principal, said: “Seeing the young people engage so confidently in their roles - whether that was live performing, recorded performing or prop and scenery making - was incredibly special.

"Their hard work throughout the term really shone through and created magical moments. It is so exciting to see the success stories coming out of Piper Arts Centre and the incredible achievements young people at Prior's Court are being empowered to create."

The production marked a significant milestone for the Piper Arts Centre - a space designed to elevate creative learning and provide accessible, specialist opportunities for autistic young people with complex needs.

The Piper Arts Centre, which opened in June 2025, includes adapted facilities to reduce barriers autistic young people may face in accessing the arts such as sensitivities to light, noise, and social expectations. The centre mirrors professional theatre environments, providing a safe and familiar space for young people to build their confidence and skills, with the ultimate aim of supporting them to access arts venues in the wider community.

Long-term vision for inclusion in the arts

Beyond its day-to-day use, Prior’s Court has ambitious plans for the Piper Arts Centre. The charity aims to use the facility to explore and share best practice in supporting access to the arts for autistic individuals with complex needs. This research will be shared across the education and performing arts sectors to improve accessibility and inclusion on a wider scale.

As part of the centre’s programme, external theatre and performance groups will be invited to perform at Prior’s Court, helping to create enriching experiences and memorable moments for the young people and their families.

Read more success stories from the centre on our dedicated blog