New Era Academy

19/06/2026

Speech & Drama Teachers Diploma – Level 4

Take your teaching and performance expertise to the next level with our Associate Diploma in Speech & Drama (Teachers).

Designed to:

✨ Provide progressive training programmes for prospective teachers
✨ Provide professional development and specialised training for existing teachers
✨ Provide a standard of training that is recognised by wider agencies
✨ Provide a relevant and challenging syllabus that encourages a high standard of knowledge research and performers

Whether you’re beginning your teaching journey or looking to enhance your existing skills, this Level 4 qualification provides the knowledge and confidence to inspire others.

🌐 Learn more and start your journey today by visiting our website.

18/06/2026

Earn a Qualification That’s Recognised and Respected

At New Era Academy, our Diplomas and Teaching Diploma are highly regarded and recognised for their consistently high standards, rigorous syllabus, and professional examination procedures.

✅ Fully regulated by Ofqual
✅ Trusted qualifications with recognised standards
✅ A comprehensive and structured diploma syllabus
✅ Diplomas available in 9 subjects, including two dedicated Teaching Diplomas

Visit neweracademy.co.uk to learn more!

13/06/2026

We have had the pleasure of working with Shirley and have witnessed her passion, dedication, and commitment to her students. We are thrilled to see her exceptional work receive the recognition it so richly deserves.

Congratulations Shirley, what an excellent achievement.

Aberdonian Shirley McGill receives BEM after more than 30 years inspiring young people through speech and drama. Read more: https://ebx.sh/VBg5Fd

11/06/2026

Speaking & Listening Through the Grades

Speaking and listening skills are developed progressively from Preliminary Grade through to Grade 8, with each level building on the last.

Throughout their journey, learners strengthen key communication skills, including reading aloud with expression, summarising plots and ideas, engaging in discussion, and speaking confidently in front of others. As they progress, they become more articulate, thoughtful, and self-assured communicators.

Take a look through the grades to see how these important skills develop over time.

08/06/2026

Speaking and Listening

Speaking and listening skills are fundamental to good communication, meaningful relationships, and positive encounters in whatever path you choose in life.

Our Speaking and Listening exam is a collaborative group assessment that helps learners develop confidence in communication, reading and performance techniques. Equally important, students learn how to listen actively, respond thoughtfully and ask insightful questions.

These are transferable skills that extend far beyond the exam room—supporting learners in their education, future careers and everyday interactions.

Visit our website to learn more: www.neweraacademy.co.uk/index.php/speaking-listening/

07/06/2026

This beautiful line from Anne of the Island by L. M. Montgomery invites us into Anne Shirley's world of imagination, optimism and self-discovery.

The third book in the beloved Anne of Green Gables series follows Anne as she leaves Avonlea, Prince Edward Island, to attend Redmond College in Kingsport, Nova Scotia. As she embraces new experiences, friendships and challenges, Anne begins to find her place in the world while discovering that Prince Edward Island will always feel like home.

For students, performing extracts from the novel offers a rich opportunity to develop characterisation, storytelling and emotional depth. Through Anne's journey, young performers can explore themes of friendship, ambition, independence and growing up, while strengthening their vocal expression, physicality and connection to text.

L. M. Montgomery is a recommended author in our Guidance for Acting Pieces for Level 2 students (Ages 13–15, Grades 4–5).

06/06/2026

Festival 2026 is underway at Chichester Festival Theatre!

We are thrilled to support Chichester Festival Theatre and if you're looking for inspiration this summer, the Festival 2026 programme offers an exciting season of theatre, events and activities. A world premiere stage adaptation of Atonement is currently on stage until 20 June, with plenty more productions and experiences to enjoy throughout the summer.

Visit www.cft.org.uk to explore the full programme and plan your visit.

📸 Photo credit: Manuel Harlan

01/06/2026

You are Invited: Network & Social Events 2026

Join us for an opportunity to connect with fellow teachers, discuss upcoming syllabus updates, and hear about new developments over a light lunch. Whether you are looking to network, ask questions, or simply catch up with others in the NEA Community, we would love to see you there.

📍 Northern Ireland
Sunday 6 September, 12:00 - 2:30
📌 The Lounge Monroe, Holywood

📍 London
Saturday 17 October, 12:00 - 2:30
📌 Parcels Yard, King's Cross

📍 Leeds
Saturday 24 October, 12:00 - 2:30
📌 O'Neill's, Leeds Station

£25 per person Booking information will be released soon.

29/05/2026

Why study performance?

Performance builds much more than stage skills. It develops confidence, communication, teamwork, discipline, and creativity — skills that last a lifetime.

Through acting, singing, and performance, young people learn how to tell stories, connect with others, think creatively, and believe in themselves. Whether pursuing the arts professionally or simply building confidence for everyday life, performance teaches learners how to use their voice.

Visit www.neweraacademy.co.uk to explore the range of performance exams available.

27/05/2026

Our Musical Theatre exam syllabus is designed to encourage creativity, individuality, and confident performance skills.

Every exam includes free choice repertoire, allowing learners to select pieces that suit their voice, personality, and performance style while developing a deeper understanding of the material they perform.

Learn more at: www.neweraacademy.co.uk