AMEB Speech and Drama gives children a structured pathway to develop their voice, communication and expression, working towards recognised examinations and milestones. The Stage & Story approach stays the same throughout: we begin with the child, their confidence, and their pace.

How does AMEB work?

AMEB tuition is offered through regular lessons during the school term, with a program tailored to the student and the requirements of their selected syllabus and grade. Students are supported through each stage of their preparation, from choosing appropriate material and developing technique through to polishing examination pieces and preparing to enter the examination room with confidence. Depending on the syllabus and level selected, learning may include both practical and theory components. At Stage & Story Co., examination preparation is about more than the final result. We want students to understand their craft, recognise their progress and develop skills they can carry into school, further study, work and everyday life.

Speech and Performance

The Speech and Performance pathway allows students to deepen their understanding of voice, character, text and performance technique. Students may explore vocal technique, articulation, projection and expression; character development and interpretation; poetry, prose and dramatic text; improvisation; mime and movement; different theatrical styles, genres and periods; and stagecraft and performance technique, learning to prepare and present their work with confidence. As students progress through the grades, they are encouraged to make increasingly thoughtful and independent creative choices.

Voice and Communication

For students particularly interested in public speaking and communication, AMEB's Voice and Communication pathway develops the skills needed to communicate ideas clearly, confidently and effectively. Students may work on prepared and impromptu speaking, vocal presence and delivery, persuasive communication, presentation skills, structuring and communicating ideas, and speaking confidently to different audiences, using voice, pace, tone and body language effectively. These are skills that extend well beyond the studio and can support students at school, university and later in professional environments.

Theory

Theory study gives students a deeper understanding of how the voice and performance work. Depending on the grade and syllabus, students may explore speech sounds and phonetics, articulation and pronunciation, breath, resonance and projection, voice care and healthy vocal production, posture and physical communication, character and text analysis, poetry and dramatic forms, stagecraft and theatre terminology, and theatre history and theatrical styles.

Who is AMEB for?

AMEB may be a wonderful next step for students who already enjoy speech and drama and are looking for an additional challenge. It may suit students who want to build confidence in speaking and presenting, develop more advanced speech and performance skills, work towards recognised qualifications, follow a structured pathway through progressive AMEB grades, prepare for future study or other creative opportunities, or set themselves a meaningful personal goal. Students do not need to be naturally confident or highly experienced before beginning. We begin with the student in front of us and build from there.

A natural next step

For many students, AMEB will sit alongside their regular Stage & Story Co. classes rather than replace them. Their weekly class provides space to explore, create, connect and build confidence with others, while AMEB coaching offers an additional opportunity for focused skill development and individual progression. Together, the two pathways allow students to enjoy the creativity of speech and drama while choosing how far they would like to take their learning.

We can help you understand the different AMEB pathways and determine whether AMEB is the right next step for your child.