The Esteem Machine - A Free Mental Health Show for Kent LEA

We've Performed

Shows

Schools

To an estimated

Children

The Esteem Machine ;
A FREE touring theatre programme supporting emotional wellbeing in
KENT LEA primary schools

At a time when children's mental health is a growing national concern, Captain Wonderweb and the Esteem Machine brings a message of self-worth, empathy, and resilience directly into Kent LEA schools. Commissioned by the NHS and developed in partnership with educators, this interactive theatre programme uses storytelling and character-led humour to create space for important conversations around wellbeing.

With over 1,500 performances delivered across 332 schools, the project has already reached an estimated 69,255 children, with 97%* of teachers recommending it to others. Resources provided alongside the show extend the learning beyond the performance, supporting PSHE, SEAL, and whole-school wellbeing initiatives.

Why schools book the Esteem Machine

Builds emotional literacy
Turns wellbeing into storytelling
High-energy, high-engagement
Zero teacher prep required
Trusted by the NHS

If you need more information on mental health support for children, please click here.

an nhs-commissioned show for kent LEA

The story follows Lieutenant Fishingnet, an excitable and anxious crew member on the SS Endeavour as they prepare for their annual health check. Only, Fishingnet is scared that, if they fail, they'll be sent home.

Captain Wonderweb returns in this free show for Kent LEA to help Lieutenant Fishingnet, demonstrate the power of resilience, and provide key strategies for children to support their wellbeing and mental health.

*All statistics accurate as of the NHS report, 8th April 2025.

Book Now

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

High-energy 30-minute show.
Wellbeing Tracking Poster for each classroom.
A packet of seeds for each classroom
Pre-show video for parents
Post-show video for parents
A music video!

WHAT PEOPLE SAY...

did your students enjoy the show?

100%

Would you recommend the show?*

93%

* 93% of teachers voted 7/10 or above.

MENTIONS

Wrotham Road Primary Blog

Northdown Primary in Isle of Thanet News

Leigh Academy Oaks News

Just to say a massive thank-you! With Ofsted the week before, you provided a little light relief with an important message for the children and staff.
castle hill

Just want you to know we super appreciate you coming in and filling our school hall with education and laughter and for being so lovely! Hope to see you again in the future.
Higham

The staff members were incredible with all of our children and made an effort for the SEND children to be included- giving them a longer time to answer questions and not rushing them.
New ASh

We thought the staff were very friendly, engaging and great at what they do, thank you. The teachers could not believe it was a free workshop.
Colliers Green

The 2 ladies who delivered our show were brilliant and most importantly for a busy school, organised, independent, reliable, adaptive to our needs and listened to the brief. They were efficient in their setting up and closing down of the show and understood the needs of our pupils.
Bower Grove