The London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA) is one of the UK’s oldest, most prestigious drama schools and awarding bodies, and has been offering examinations for over 130 years. Their Exams might most easily be described as the drama equivalent of music grades.
LAMDA’s alumni include: Benedict Cumberbatch; John Lithgow; Brian Cox; David Suchet; Patricia Hodge; Julie Hesmondhalgh; Jim Broadbent; Rory Kinnear; Chiwetel Ejiofor; and Mischief Theatre.
LAMDA exams are not solely for those thinking about entering the world of performance and are widely recognised for having empowered hundreds of thousands of young people across the globe.
Students reach higher levels of reading comprehension, as reading becomes not only seeing and understanding, but also being actively and physically involved.
Dr. Arzu Güngör Leushuis - Teaching Faculty I in Elementary Education at Florida State University
LAMDA offers a number of Performance and Communication exams. Those The CreativeWise offer as part of our LAMDA tuition can be found below. Exams can be taken solo, as a duo, or in a group.
Introductory Exams
Learning new skills while having fun. This is a great starting point for learners to gain confidence and collaborate in a supportive environment to help each other grow as creative individuals.
Performance Exams
Acting
Learners delve into characterisation and develop strong speaking skills in one of LAMDA’s most popular exams. Working through the grades aids the development of clear speaking, character portrayal and a sensitive appreciation of subtext.
Musical Theatre
Learn how to tell a captivating story through song with vibrant characterisation and strong acting technique. Individuals flourish in a supportive environment as they explore acting and harmony or choral singing skills.
Shakespeare (Solo or Duo)
These exams encourage a deep immersion into Shakespeare’s words and the development of the technical skills required to perform them confidently and creatively.
Communication Exams
Speaking Verse and Prose
Students develop a whole host of skills, from speaking clearly and using voice projection, to improving memorisation and building an understanding of poetry and prose which supports studies in English literature.
Speaking in Public
Learners write their own speeches, researching the topics, creating visual aids and presenting them from memory. They will develop the ability to speak clearly and project their voice for an audience.
Grades
Introductory
Entry Level
Grades 1-3 - Level 1 qualifications
Grades 4-5 - Level 2 qualifications, equivalent to a GCSE
Grades 6-8 - Bronze, Silver & Gold. Level 3 qualifications, equivalent to an A-level, earning UCAS points
Benefits for students
Performance
Characterisation
Physicality and facial expressions
Objectives and tactics
Character motivations and intentions
Stage presence
Situational understanding
Interpretation
Breathing techniques
Resonance
Sustained commitment
Communication
Articulation
Varied pronunciation and diction
Vocal projection and breath support
Listening
Public speaking
Using body language and eye contact
Rhythm and timing
Use of pause
Understanding subtext
Constructive informal conversation
Personal
Emotional intelligence
Collaboration
Self-confidence
Empathy and understanding
Creativity and imagination
Risk-taking
Handling nerves
Improvisation
Perseverance and resilience
Taking up space
Academic
Fluency in reading
Broader vocabulary
Enhanced memory and recall
Critical thinking
Text analysis
Research and formal presentations
An appreciation of literature
Improved reading comprehension
Structuring arguments
UCAS points (for Grade 6+)
What we offer
Pupils are withdrawn from their normal timetabled class for a 30 minute session on a rotational basis, either as an individual, pair or group of three.
For any students already missing a lesson for a regular commitment we will endeavour to schedule their lessons in free periods, lunchtimes or before/after school where there is availability.
Showcase
In both of the above deliveries, The CreativeWise produces a Showcase for staff and parents/guardians to view everyone’s wonderful pieces. It's an excellent confidence-builder, and students love the chance to share their work and feel the excitement of getting on stage.
Payment is usually taken once per term. However, we are happy to discuss alternative approaches depending on your situation.
Any issues?
Get in touch using our Contact Us form.