Speech and Drama

Speech and drama classes give students the ability to express themselves with clarity, confidence and courtesy, building resilience and self-esteem.


It is through speech that we assimilate the thoughts, opinions, ideas, emotions, humour, wisdom, common sense, even morals and spiritual values of those around us. It is through perceptive listening and courteous speaking that we move towards breaking down social, professional and racial barriers.
Christabel Burniston MBE, English Speaking Board Founder

Bridie Gray, LTCL Teaching Speech & Drama, BA Honours is an experienced speech and drama teacher who works with our students to provide the professional tutoring they need. Many girls take the extra-curricular Speech and Drama classes at Marsden. We want to give students the ability to express themselves with clarity, confidence and courtesy.  


Please contact Bridie at bridie.gray@dramaclub.co.nz if you wish to discuss any aspect of the speech programme.

 

Marsden Primary – Year 1 to Year 6

We offer Marsden Primary students Speech and Drama and Public Speaking classes.

 

The Year 1-3 programme is focused on listening and speaking confidently.

 

In Year 4-6 skills covered are vocal development, drama, reading aloud, poetry speaking, extempore talks, impromptu talks, improvisation, role-play and literature appreciation. 

  • Lessons 30 minutes long 
  • Lessons are taught in small groups of no more than six students.
  • Fees are $226 per term
  • One-off admin fee $40 added to first account.

 

Examinations are held in Term 3 and conducted by an independent examiner. Successful students will be awarded a badge and certificate.

 

Marsden Year 7 to Year 13

The skills covered are vocal development, drama, reading aloud, poetry speaking, extempore talks, impromptu talks, improvisation and literature appreciation. These are very valuable skills to give them confidence in speaking for their future personal, social and career paths.

 

Preparation and practice in Terms 1 and 2 for a Drama Festival Assessment for which successful students receive a drama badge, and a written report from the Assessor

 

Preparation in Terms 3 the Speech New Zealand examinations in which their work is assessed against a national standard by an independent examiner. A certificate and badge is awarded by Speech NZ to successful students.

Fees, Terms and Conditions

Fees $320 per term

  • Year 7 to 9 classes are held on a rotating timetable throughout the school day.
  • Year 10 to 13 classes are held at lunchtime or after school.
  • Cell phones are NOT permitted during class.
  • Missed lessons will NOT be made up.


Extra charges Term 1

  • One-off admin fee $40 added to first account
  • Year 7 to 12, Drama Assessment fee $42 per student (includes written report and badge)


Extra charges Term 2

  • Examination fee payable direct to Speech NZ.
  • Exam workbook.


Extra charge Term 3

  • Speech NZ lapel badge $18 for successful exam results.

 

Year 12/13 Application for Diploma in Performance

To be eligible to study for this Diploma Year 12/13 students must have achieved an Honours Pass in Grade 7 or 8 from either Speech New Zealand or Trinity College.  The Diploma in Performance is a first year university equivalent. The application to enrol is offered to high achieving students at the teacher's discretion. The teacher reserves the right to withdraw a student who is not reaching the required standard.


Students must attend all classes and be prepared to commit to the research and independent learning required. Regardless of natural talent, it is not possible to complete this diploma without dedication to in depth theory study and reading a wide range of New Zealand literature across all genres including Plays, Novels, Poetry and Short Stories. 

Fees, Terms and Conditions

Fees $39 per lesson

  • Year 12/13 classes are held after school or in a study period.
  • Cell phones are NOT permitted during class.
  • Missed lessons will NOT be made up.

 



Bridie Gray

021 054 2593
Speech and Drama Teacher