Parents-Information-Handbook-2016-2017

Page 125
Section 4 - Life Beyond the Classroom
Drama and LAMDA
Drama
For those who have an interest in drama, there are always many opportunities. Plays and performances
are regularly put on in the School’s theatre, usually within Year groups. The productions may be smallscale,
one-act plays which students are performing as part of their examination syllabus, or large-scale
productions. Rehearsals take place during lesson time, for drama students, and at weekends in the run-up
to the performance. All productions, whatever their size, require a cast, a technical crew, a stage crew and
lots of helpers. The skills of the theatre are skills that can be used well beyond School and all students
can take advantage of the busy drama programme to make a valuable contribution.
LAMDA
LAMDA stands for the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art and is an enjoyable way for a child
to build in self-confidence, preparing them for their future and teaching them invaluable life
skills. LAMDA examinations are designed to develop a clear speaking voice and good body
language. Students at Ratcliffe are given the opportunity to complete introductory examinations, which
are designed to introduce learners to creative expression; as students progress, examinations are also
offered in Speaking Verse and Prose, Acting, Devised Drama and Public Speaking. We have seen the
number of LAMDA students more than double in the last year and examination results have been truly
impressive. All students have received a pass grade and above, with the vast majority achieving merit and
distinction. Examinations are held twice a year at Ratcliffe and all students are presented their results and
certificates during Headmaster’s Assembly. There has been a noticeable improvement in the speech
competition held in the Preparatory School, with many of the finalists being LAMDA students. Teachers
have commented on the improved levels of confidence of students in their normal lessons. LAMDA is
taught after School, either on a one-to-one basis or as a shared lesson between two or three people. These
lessons last half an hour and are available every week day. LAMDA workshops are also held on Monday,
Tuesday and Wednesday lunchtime in the Preparatory School; these lessons compromise of six to eight
children for a half-hour with two classes held each lunchtime.
Section 4 - Drama and LAMDA - Senior School