Our Kid Reporter Shammarah Ismath has a chat with the Principal of the Wendy Whatmore Academy of Speech and Drama, Mrs. Wendy Holsinger.

Q: Madam, how long have you been with the Academy of Speech and Drama?

A: I was four years, when I started learning elocution; then in 1980, I was Vice Principal and in 1989, I became the Principal of the Academy.

Q: How does a student benefit in your Academy?

A: They become more confident, they improve their vocabulary, their speaking skills and of course acting.

Q: Are there any special differences in the pronunciation we learn at school and at the elocution class?

A: Very definitely, because some of the pupils who are not trained in Speech and Drama don't know the exact, correct pronunciation, but we who have trained, know the correct syllabic stresses, where to use them and the use of the neutral vowel. There is a difference, but the main thing is to speak without a very affected accent.

Q: Could you please explain the subject, the syllabus and the different levels designed for the
students?

A: There are seven different syllabuses and the Speech and Drama syllabus is designed to help to speak properly and well, and to encourage drama. The verse and prose teaches you the different techniques used in speaking. Poetry and prose and effective communication teaches you how to be a good orator. Effective text brings out the correct way to pronounce and the meaning of speaking naturally.

Q: Do all students complete the levels designed for them?

A: Most students have completed successfully.

Q: What type of career opportunities are available for a student who completes the entire designed levels?

A: The pupils who go right to the very top, usually become teachers of Speech and Drama, but there are lawyers, doctors and others, who have joined the United Nations. In fact, it benefits people in all fields of work.

Q: Could you explain how your Academy contributes to the development of English in Sri Lanka?

A: Recently we have started programmes for big companies, where we help junior executives, clients of all different levels to get a better knowledge of English. We have sent teachers out to places where English has not been taught in remote schools. And also, we have sent teachers to private companies to improve their English speaking skills and writing skills.

Q: For new enrolment, how can we contact you and what are your procedures?

A: For new enrolment you have to come into the office and you pay a small admission fee and join the Academy.

Q: Do you have any special message to convey to students like us in learning English?

A: Yes, you have to improve your speaking skills, your pronunciation, your acting abilities and above all, be natural.