Speaking out

Eliza Doolittle battling Henry Higgins with her H's in an attempt to transform her speech into that of a lady is far removed from the world of speech and drama today. However, the essential elements and aims of elocution lessons; clarity, projection, vocal variety and presentation remain the same.

Nurturing confidence

Confidence and self-esteem are key areas in which I believe speech and drama has real impact. I often wish I could video students – whether children or adults – when I first meet them and then six months later, as the change is so clear to see.

There are several speech and drama examination boards who offer a variety of different disciplines. The subjects are split into two categories: performance and communication.

In the performance category you will find acting; musical theatre; mime; devised drama; Shakespeare solo verse; speaking; creative movement; choral speaking and recitals.

In the communication category you will find speech and drama which will involve poetry, prose and acting pieces; public speaking; interview technique; reading for performance; spoken English and English as an additional language.

There are also communication examinations that allow students with specific disabilities or additional needs the opportunity to explore and study.

I have worked with New Era Academy (NEA) for over ten years. I was introduced to them by Miranda Jacobs, the examinations director. It was her manner, professional and accessible, with a wonderful kindness and sense of humour, that first made me feel comfortable exploring a new examinations board. She was there every step of the way and never seemed to mind how many times I called her or how many petty inane questions I wanted answering.

Flexible and accessible

One of the biggest strengths of NEA is the flexibility and accessibility of people who represent them. The camaraderie of the teachers, examiners and the board are a reflection of the company itself. NEA has real heart with the student being the focus and main priority.

The syllabus at NEA is constantly evolving to incorporate the disciplines that are necessary to meet the requirements of an ever-changing world. Communication skills are necessary in all walks of life and it never ceases to amaze me how many times in my life the skills I have developed through speech and drama have equipped me.

The development of the exam subjects reflects the learning needs of students, the topics they are interested in and also the bespoke way in which each organisation is dealt with. Whether live or filmed, examinations are meticulously scrutinised. Training for examiners is held regularly and this maintains the standards of all concerned. It was an absolute honour to be given the post of chief examiner and one that I feel humble to hold. I am lucky enough to visit teachers and examiners around the world and the examination process is both heartwarming and exhilarating. Students of all ages will pursue their chosen route and enjoy the moment when their hard work is able to reach fruition. Most examinations start at introductory level, however students can jump in at any level dependent on age, ability and experience.

Exams are booked by teachers normally in their own learning environment or in a place that is convenient for all. The entries are booked in with NEA and then the session will take place. The marks are available within 48 hours however the reports can be returned with certificates in two weeks. When taking Grade 6, 7 and 8 it is worth remembering that these have UCAS points attached to them. If you or your students would like to add more UCAS points to their total, then studying one topic in communication and one in performance will ultimately incorporate the points gained from the two sets of exams.

I am incredibly lucky to be able to represent NEA in my new capacity of chief examiner and I believe that my job is now to bring this wonderful subject to the attention of the world. I would love as many as possible to have the opportunities I have been fortunate to experience and to encourage and guide them through the process every step of the way. So, whether you are a teacher who would like more information, training, are seeking a career in performance, or just want to learn new skills and improve confidence, don't hesitate to contact NEA by phone or email. I hope together we can help develop techniques that, unlike Eliza, do not equip students to enter society's elite, but instead provide communication tools to succeed in all areas of life.

© MIKE STONE

A student taking part in the New Era Academy speech and drama exams

‘Confidence and self-esteem are key areas in which speech and drama has real impact’