Unlock Social & Emotional Growth in as little as 10 weeks! 

At StoryForge, we help learners develop essential life skills through creative storytelling, teamwork, and problem-solving, empowering them to build confidence, navigate challenges, and grow socially and emotionally in a supportive environment. The following sample data highlights the development of learners over a 10-week programme:



The data is sourced from a twenty-session pilot programme with eight Year 8 participants at Heworth Grange School, Gateshead. Participants completed an ELSA Support-approved Social & Emotional Learning questionnaire at the start of the programme and again after the final session. The results demonstrate measurable growth in key life skills, which align with broader academic research in the field. 

Praise for StoryForge

"There's never just one way to solve the problems, I like that." Kai, 13

"I like that we get to take time to stop and think about the situation and plan what to do next". Kara, 13

"This is a lesson which trains your instincts. I love it, it really gets me through the day".  Jeana, 13

"I play a knight. I love getting to be the hero and stepping up against bad guys. These sessions make me enjoy school more". Keith, 12

"I was unsure at first, but it's actually really good. The 90 minutes go by very fast!". Leon, 12

Students of Heworth Grange School

Andrew's programme showcased creative and engaging teaching through storytelling, digital resources, and active learning strategies, ensuring high levels of participation and enthusiasm. His dynamic delivery, effective scaffolding, and well-designed stretch-and-challenge questions fostered deep thinking and inclusivity among the learners. 

Praise and constructive feedback were consistently meaningful, motivating learners and reinforcing their progress. The session concluded with an impactful plenary, consolidating learning through a thoughtful cause-and-effect activity.”


Claire Bellerby 

Head of Department, Gateshead College

What is StoryForge?

StoryForge is a tabletop adventure-based educational game that combines creative storytelling, teamwork, and problem-solving. It encourages structured conversations, critical thinking, and decision-making through simulated scenarios before discreetly creating space for reflective thinking and instinct development. The game provides a focused, time-bound environment for self-expression, exploration, and the development of social and emotional skills.

Research-backed and Adaptable

All elements of StoryForge are informed by evidence-based research on learning and social development, ensuring it is both effective and engaging. The program is adaptable, allowing facilitators to tailor each session to the needs of individual learners. A basic understanding of spoken English is recommended, but no prior experience is required.

Why it Works

Above all, StoryForge is fun. Learners don't perceive it as formal education—they see it as a game. This enjoyment draws them in, creating an environment where trained facilitators can subtly introduce social development techniques that help build confidence, resilience, and essential life skills. The game allows learners to step into the role of the hero, offering moments where they can experience genuine feelings of competence and confidence. These emotions, though shaped within a fictional world, often carry over into real life, empowering learners beyond the game.

By simulating immersive worlds and allowing learners to explore and shape who they want to become, StoryForge is more than just a game. It is a powerful and invaluable educational tool.

How a Game of StoryForge Works

StoryForge is a unique sub-genre within the world of tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs), a medium that has been evolving for over half a century.

A game session requires a group of 4-5 learners to come together, either around a table or online, to collaborate through creative conversation. Guided by a set of rules, the group plays out an emergent story that unfolds within their collective imagination.

The Role of the Facilitator

The facilitator plays a central role in guiding the learners through a StoryForge game session.