Speech & Drama

Speech and Drama has always been a strong option at Westonbirt, and helps to give our pupils not only the enjoyment of plays, poetry and literature, but development of confidence and the effective communication so important in life today.

We offer the opportunity to enter LAMDA Speaking in Public in the Autumn term, where pupils present speeches on topics of their own choice and develop communication skills.

LAMDA Performance examinations are held in school twice a year in the Spring and Summer terms, and pupils can choose to enter for Speaking of Verse and Prose, Acting, Devising Drama, Speaking in Public, and Reading for Performance. High grades from this examination board are awarded UCAS points, which can strengthen university applications, as the points available are equal to GCSE and A-level examinations.

We encourage pupils to enter the Mid-Somerset festival in Verse Speaking, Acting and Prepared Readings to build confidence when performing in public. Westonbirt pupils have also performed at the Edinburgh Fringe and the Bath & Cheltenham Festival of Performing Arts.

Speech Improvement tuition is intended for students for whom English is a second or acquired language, or students for whom English is a first language, who would prefer to focus on Public Speaking rather than Speech & Drama. Lessons focus on learning how to use English expressively and effectively, improving diction and accent, and encouraging confidence when speaking in public.

In order to gain recognition of their skills, students have the opportunity to enter the London Academy of Music & Dramatic Arts (LAMDA) Speaking in Public examinations. High grades from this examination board are awarded UCAS points, which can strengthen university applications, as the points available are equal to GCSE and A-level examinations. Pupils can take tuition as an individual learner, in a shared lesson (pair) or in small groups (subject to interest).

To register interest in lessons, please complete the online form: Speech & Drama / Improvement

If you have any questions, please contact Mrs English: shirley.english@westonbirtschool.uk