Why I think taking drama exams at a young age normalises public speaking in children
It’s been a crazy few weeks and months preparing Finding Voices pupils for LAMDA exams in one of our 3 private sessions! We had one in Hove, one in St Albans and an online exam session!
Something I often think about is the very youngest of learners taking exams. When I first started out back in 2012 I wouldn’t offer them to 6 yr olds as I thought they were too young. I quickly realised, however, that as long as the pupil wants to take part (after lots of gentle encouragement) exams can really help to normalise public speaking.
I had two pupils in tears about a month ago. With exam day looming they were starting to get the fear and were convinced they couldn’t do it. I explained to them how normal it was to feel nervous and asked them to switch nerves to excitement (as they are very similar experiences in the body). I also told them that all I wanted was for them to go in and try to do it, no matter what the result. Just being able to stand in front of a stranger and speak/perform is such a brilliant learning experience and ultimately life skill. My favourite two lines of feedback from parents this week after exams were the below:
“she did speak and that is miles from where we once were so great to see progress”
“she came out and said ‘I really love doing LAMDA and never want to stop doing it!!’”
This negative self talk I find amoungst pupils is just as common with adults I coach through my other company, Speaking Works. We say we can’t do it, are then full of nerves so the meeting/presentation never goes to plan and then there we have it - proof we are no good. With adults, I encourage them to start noticing the small, successful conversations they have so that they can build up a positive memory bank to override negative experiences. I also teach them key techniques to improve their speaking skills and manage nerves.
I run Finding Voices specifically so children don’t grow up to be adults that believe they can’t ‘do’ public speaking! Outlined below are a few other ways drama exams can help normalise public speaking if you need more convincing ;)
Practice: Drama exams often require students to perform in front of an audience, whether it's their peers or examiners. This regular practice builds confidence and familiarity with being in front of others.
Feedback: Students receive feedback on their performances through LAMDA exams, which helps them improve their public speaking and performance skills. Constructive criticism and encouragement from teachers and peers can help students feel more comfortable speaking in front of others.
Structured Environment: Drama exams provide a structured environment for public speaking. Students know what to expect and can prepare accordingly, which can help alleviate some of the anxiety associated with speaking in front of others.
Peer Support: In drama classes, students often work together and support each other during performances. This sense of camaraderie can help reduce the fear of public speaking and create a supportive environment for students to practice and improve their skills.
Creative Expression: Drama exams allow students to express themselves creatively through performance. Focusing on the content and delivery of their performance can help students feel more engaged and less focused on their nerves.
Speech and drama classes and LAMDA exams provide a safe and supportive environment for students to practice public speaking and performing. If you are looking for an online or in-person class for your child to join then check out our full schedule for 6 - 18yrs here.
