LAMDA Examinations, the Awarding Body arm of Britain's most prestigious theatre organisation, The London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, has launched an exciting specialist qualification which has been designed to develop the skills, knowledge and understanding required to teach introductory communication skills, speech and drama to young children and adults.

Although LAMDA Examinations does not require teachers of speech and drama to hold a specific qualification in order to deliver the syllabus specifications in the classroom, they do emphasise the importance of proficiency and competency in speech and drama education when teaching.

The LAMDA Teacher's Certificate in Communication (LTCC) offers a programme of study which reflects the complex role of the teacher in the sector, combining theory with practical exercises and tasks. More specifically, candidates will engage with the technical and artistic knowledge required for working with speech and drama at pre-school / lower primary level and basic level for all age ranges, as well as the practical skills required for planning sessions, teaching and assessing students. The certificate is suitable for teachers holding a general teacher qualification wishing to develop specialised skills or for those who are already teaching but are seeking their first teacher certificate.

Increased demand for LAMDA Examinations
LAMDA Examinations Sri Lanka had a significant increase in the number of entries for the February 2009 session. Schools and Teachers are able to send their entries for the August 2009 session by May 2009.

LAMDA examinations have been growing in popularity in Sri Lanka over the last few years. From 2009, LAMDA Examinations will be held in February and August every year. The new arrangement, in addition to providing more support to those who are already involved with LAMDA examinations, will provide opportunities for more teachers and pupils island-wide to develop their communication and dramatic art skills.

LAMDA is recognised worldwide for being one of the leading drama schools in the English- speaking world and for conducting the most eminent set of public examinations in its sector. In British theatre and television, many cast lists include LAMDA alumni. Many students studying in independent schools, State schools and private performing arts schools in the UK have the opportunity to take LAMDA examinations, including the Grade 8 exams, which are recognised for entrance to UK universities. In fact, UCAS points are available for examinations at Grade 6, 7 and 8, to assist in entering UK universities.

LAMDA is dedicated to the creative, intellectual and social development of the individual as a whole. It is for this reason that LAMDA has become the largest Speech and Drama Awarding Body in the United Kingdom. Its examinations also have a reputation for excellence worldwide, so candidates can measure their progress against an internationally applied standard. LAMDA Examinations is accredited as an Awarding Body by The Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) and the corresponding regulatory authorities in Wales and Northern Ireland.

Further information can be obtained from Aroshi Jayasinghe or Sashi Mendis at the LAMDA Examinations Sri Lanka office at 33/10, Gothami Raod, Colombo 8. You could also email on aroshi@lamda.lk, sashi@lamda.lk or call on 0773838877 or 2682777.