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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?
Would you recommend the show?*
* 93% of teachers voted 7/10 or above.
MENTIONS
castle hillJust 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.
HighamJust 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.
New AShThe 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.
Colliers GreenWe 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.
Bower GroveThe 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.
BearsteadYour staff that came to us are a credit to you. I need say no more than that.
Cast & Crew
Kate Maunder
Writer, Director, & Actor
Jane Biggs
Writer
Gemma Wils
Assistant Director
Tom Cleaver
Set Designer
Paul Macklin
Esteem Machine Designer
Claire Haslem
Wardrobe
Sam Gibson
Wardrobe & Actor
Kayleigh Pugh
Actor
Chelsey Best
Actor
Hatsy Amos
Actor
Alfie Mapes
Actor
Eden Rivers
Actor
Tabitha Wild
Actor
Mary Redmond
Actor
Jess Sheather
Actor