LAMDA Acting Exams Confidence Creativity and UCAS Points

LAMDA Acting Examinations are now part of our co-curricular offering, giving students the chance to build confidence, develop performance skills, and earn recognised qualifications that support their academic journey. These exams, run by the London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art, are respected worldwide and help students grow in communication, creativity and self-expression.

Last term, students from Year 6 to Year 12 sat their first-ever LAMDA Acting exams and the results were outstanding. Many achieved Distinctions, with some scoring as high as 98%, despite it being their first time performing formal speeches.

What Students Achieved

• Grades 1–5: Students performed two three-minute speeches and answered questions about character development, breathing techniques and preparation.
• Grade 6 (Bronze): Students tackled one pre-1980 and one post-1980 speech, exploring character objectives and their role in the wider play.
• Grade 7 (Silver): Students performed three contrasting speeches, including Shakespearean and classical texts, and analysed dramatic styles, playwright intentions and historical context.

These exams were completed while students were still in the year below their current year group, making their achievements even more impressive.

Celebrating Individual Success

To celebrate their outstanding achievements, all students who participated in the exams received a Headteacher’s Commendation Award from Mrs. Aine McGlue, recognising their talent, dedication and courage.

• Freddie, Ekaterina, Gabriell, and Ahaan (now Year 7) completed Grades 1–2.
• Eloise and Lily (Years 10 and 12) earned their Grade 6 Bronze Awards.
• Serafina (Year 13) completed Grade 7 Silver.
• AbdulAziz (Year 10) achieved a remarkable 98% in Grade 5.
• Additional students including Hanan and Kaira (Year 10 and 11) also performed strongly in Grades 4 and 5.

Students who completed Grade 6 and Grade 7 have now earned UCAS points, which can be used to support university applications, a valuable academic advantage.

To celebrate their outstanding achievements, all students who participated in the exams received a Headteacher’s Commendation Award from Mrs. Aine McGlue, recognising their talent, dedication and courage.

Why LAMDA Matters

LAMDA helps students find their voice, build resilience and express themselves with confidence. These skills support success across subjects and future pathways, whether in the arts, public speaking, or leadership.

As part of our commitment to holistic education, The British International School Abu Dhabi offers LAMDA through our after-school programme, giving students access to world-class drama training and recognised qualifications.