Not everyone joins a comedy club to become a comedian.
At Palm Beach Currumbin State High School, students join the comedy club for all kinds of reasons—to build confidence, conquer nerves or try something new. Along the way, many discover that a well-timed punchline just might be the key to finding their voice.
'As someone who's autistic, I know how challenging it can be to express yourself in a room full of people—that's why I'm always exploring new approaches and big ideas,' says Erin Hull, founder of the Funny Kids Comedy Writing Workshops.
'The students don't even realise by working on their comedy act, they are developing persuasive writing, language and critical thinking skills.'
Erin started the program in 2019 to help students who struggle to put ideas to paper or are nervous about presenting their work in class.
Inspired by a local comedy showcase, Erin applied for a grant and enlisted comedian Mandy Nolan to help deliver student workshops. This move sparked what is now an annual school event. The students' original stand-up, sketch and musical acts are performed at Reds Go Riot, a showcase open to the community, with proceeds going to charity.
Comedy = curriculum
Erin holds a theatre degree and has a background in writing, production and singing, but it's in the English classroom, not the drama room, where she brings these skills to life. She's found that creating comedic works ties in with the curriculum and helps students engage with language in creative and meaningful ways.
'Working as an English teacher, I see kids struggle putting ideas and thoughts together, so I encourage them to see things in a different way to improve literacy,' Erin says.
'It's also great for diversity and inclusion because it's an activity any student can take part in and feel heard and nurtured.
'This isn't just for the class clowns—it's also great for more introverted kids who have something to say but need help to structure language, and support in a safe environment to say it out loud.
Erin says the workshops bring together students who might never cross paths otherwise, sparking curiosity, breaking down barriers and inspiring them to start creating and writing together.
The result
Erin says students often draw from the chaos and frustrations of teenage life and calling out the absurdities they see around them. This often results in performances that are raw, relatable and entirely their own.
'People like to hear young people's insights,' she says.
'Suddenly, that nervous, quiet kid feels a sense of belonging in that comedy space. They feel accepted, without judgement.
'The students get such a surprise when people laugh at their routines.'
While some students join the workshops and showcase to develop confidence in presenting and literacy, others have a sharper focus on comedy as a career or hobby.
'I've had multiple students take part in Melbourne International Comedy Festival's Class Clowns school section, with 2 national finalists, many state finalists and others in the regional heats,' Erin says.
'This gives students an opportunity to perform with kids around the state and around the country.'
Year 10 student, Phoenix has taken part in the comedy program since year 7 and said it's been an awesome experience.
'It has helped to build my confidence and provided a pathway to becoming the youngest comedian to appear at the Melbourne Comedy Festival when I was 13,' he says.
Year 12 student Owen said the comedy program has made him more willing to try new things and forge stronger bonds with fellow comedians at the school.
'The program's relaxed yet educational environment made me feel like I was participating in a hobby, but at the same time, I was learning from a professional with extensive experience in the field,' he says
'It really helped by connecting me with other people at the school who are interested in comedy.
'The program is run in such a way that makes it a thriving community.'