ACT ONE
Simon is an acting tutor at the prestigious SYLVIA YOUNG THEATRE SCHOOL and a peripatetic drama teacher at BEDFORD PREP SCHOOL, as well as director of ACT ONE DRAMA which provides after-school drama classes in primary schools. Since it was established twenty years ago, hundreds of children have benefitted from Act One’s lively and enjoyable approach.
Many children are eager to take drama beyond the curriculum and these classes help to stretch their imagination and extend their creativity, confidence and self-esteem. Through the use of drama exercises and improvisation the children learn to express themselves in a safe, disciplined environment, enabling them to widen friendships and develop their social skills. The introduction of scripts helps to improve further their reading and literacy.
Act One children have the opportunity to take LAMDA (London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art) examinations.
All tutors have been vetted by the DBS and the Police National Computer.
"Children are always playing – whether it’s in the playground or with their toys, friends or pets at home. Acting out stories is a natural development of this love of role-play and can encourage even the most reluctant reader to turn to the printed page."
"Plays can be fantastic as a reading tool too. By swapping the parts round, children learn through repetition without getting bored – and what’s more they put expression into the words instead of reciting woodenly."
Julia Donaldson – Children’s Laureate
September, 2011
“Creativity now is as important in education as literacy – and we should treat it with the same status.”
Sir Ken Robinson - creativity expert, author and government advisor.
LAMDA
With over twenty years of experience as a teacher, Simon prepares students for LAMDA (London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art) examinations.
He has a 100% success rate and specialises in:
Solo Introductory - A great starting point for young learners and those who have yet to take an exam, enabling them gain confidence and learn new skills while having fun.
Acting - One of LAMDA’s most popular exams where learners explore dramatic texts, gaining an understanding of context and characterisation, while developing strong speaking skills.
Speaking Verse and Prose - As learners interact with the texts they gain a host of skills which include how to engage with an audience, voice projection, using expression and body language. An understanding of poetry and prose supports studies in English literature.
Speaking in Public – This exam lays the foundations of effective public speaking. Students research topics and write and deliver their own speeches, learning how to use visual aids, engaging with their audience and developing the ability to project their voice and speak clearly.
LAMDA exams are a superb way of increasing confidence in performing and the spoken word, and the bronze, silver and gold (Grades 6, 7 & 8) exams are included in the UCAS Tariff, earning points to help university entry.
Based in High Barnet, Simon usually visits the student’s home, but can also teach via Zoom or Skype if necessary. Feel free to contact him for further information.