LAMDA | Boost! School of Acting

Preparation for LAMDA Examinations

Congratulations to all our students for another fantastic set of results last term

Number of exams taken: 327 Number of Distinctions: 257 Number of Merits: 70

Children or adults who are particularly passionate about drama can take LAMDA examinations. The London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art has been offering public examinations in performance and communication for 130 years.

They are a wonderful opportunity for teachers to offer a structured approach to a course of acting lessons. The LAMDA syllabus encourages the learner to acquire essential drama skills such as voice projection, diction, stage craft, character analysis, in-depth understanding of the text and good communication.

Right from the entry level exam the student will need to learn their lines, make themselves heard and clearly understood and demonstrate empathy for their character. After having performed two contrasting monologues, the learner will sit down for a chat with the examiner who will ask some questions that the student will be well prepared for.

As the grades progress the learner will make a gradually more in-depth study of the material leading to grades 6, 7 and 8 which contribute to UCAS points for university applications. There are no written examinations and the feedback from examiners is kind, supportive and constructive.

"Caroline surprised me by finding a performance in my daughter which was something special and new. She achieves this with such enthusiasm and encouragement that LAMDA is a pleasure not a chore."

Mr Heyworth's ability to enthuse children about public speaking and inspire them to deliver their very best is astonishing. E’s composure on the evening was fantastic to see and she spoke beautifully thanks to his expert guidance.

"With Caroline, results are better and obtained faster and she ensures that we get excellent value for money encouraging Aimee to do as much as possible outside lessons. Caroline’s passion for theatre is evident and her coaching is clear. Caroline is organised, communicative, and flexible."

I love learning drama with Caroline because she shows you what she wants you to do, she doesn’t just tell you. She doesn’t tell you you’re doing it wrong, she tells you how to make it better. She’s very encouraging and really, really wants you to do well.

Here is what LAMDA has to say:

“LAMDA exams are about achievement – recognising and rewarding the endeavours of each individual – but they are also about empowerment. Our ultimate aim is to provide all people with the opportunity to develop the life skills they need to be a success: attributes such as self-confidence and the ability to communicate clearly and present ideas.

“At the heart of LAMDA examinations is the recognition that our qualifications are for everyone. Across the globe, our examinations unite learners of all ages, abilities, backgrounds and cultures in enthusiasm for the English language and a desire to develop skills for life.”

You can find out more on their website.

Caroline, Piers, Tom and Stephanie coach students for LAMDA exams on a one to one basis though some prefer to work with a friend and take a combined or duologue exam.

Up to grade 5 we aim to take an exam at the end of every full term (December, April and July) and there are around 14 lessons per term. Grades 6-8 will take longer depending on the student. Very young learners will start with an Entry level exam which is just one monologue and ten 20 minute lessons.

All students will take a mock exam before the real one so they feel thoroughly prepared when they walk into the real thing. Final exams are in London and students or their parents are responsible for getting there on the day.

We work in a focussed way and attainment is very high but it is not all about the exam. It is about what working towards the exam helps you to achieve on a personal level.