Saint Kentigern College in Auckland, New Zealand, has established itself as a leader in drama education, offering a robust extracurricular programme focused on drama, speech, communication skills and musical theatre. What began as a modest drama programme with one part-time peripatetic teacher has flourished into a comprehensive offer supported by a dedicated team of drama educators.
"When I started in 2014, I was taking over from a drama tutor who worked two half-days a week," recalls Ashton Brown, Speech & Drama Tutor & Acting Coach "By my second year, the programme had grown, and I’ve been full-time for ten years now. We now also have two additional staff members teaching Drama, Communication Skills, and Musical Theatre too."
This growth is a testament to the increasing demand for Trinity’s qualifications and the school’s commitment to providing quality drama education. The flexible structure of Trinity’s curriculum has allowed the programme to grow and cater to a wide range of student interests and needs.
Meeting educator needs
Initially unfamiliar with the Trinity syllabus, Ashton recounts the steep learning curve when he began teaching at the College “I walked in thinking I’d be supporting NCEA [New Zealand’s national curriculum], only to discover I’d be teaching Trinity’s syllabus, which I had no prior experience with.” As an actor by trade, there were some initial challenges, which he quickly adapted to, thanks to Trinity’s well-structured framework. “Within six months, I went from feeling completely out of my depth to feeling competent and confident. Trinity’s curriculum provides a structure that fills in gaps, making it accessible for teachers passionate about drama and communication.”
This support extends much further as Ashton credits Trinity with helping him grow professionally: “I don’t think I would have advanced as much as an educator without Trinity’s guidance. It’s given me a structure, a career, and the ability to inspire students.”
Empowering students
Saint Kentigern’s drama programme caters to a diverse student body with varying goals and abilities. From aspiring actors to students seeking confidence in public speaking, the flexibility of Trinity’s qualifications has been key. “I’ve taught students who couldn’t make eye contact or hold a conversation. Two years later, they’re earning distinctions in Trinity exams,” says Ashton.
The emphasis on skill development rather than rigid outcomes has made Trinity’s exams less intimidating. “We promote the programme by focusing on the learning outcomes, not just the exam. This way, students benefit from the preparation, whether or not they ultimately sit for the qualification,” explains Ashton. The results speak for themselves “Every year, I see students who start with low confidence achieve things they never thought possible.”
Flexible and evolving framework
Trinity’s commitment to accessibility and continuous improvement has been a cornerstone of its success at Saint Kentigern. Ashton highlights the fact that Trinity listens to the feedback given about syllabuses and adapts, with several key changes in the curriculum that have enhanced its appeal. “The shift from sight reading to expressive reading, for example, has made the exams more inclusive for students with learning or processing difficulties. The curriculum’s flexibility allows students to play to their strengths while developing critical skills.”
The introduction of options like devising original pieces or performing unpublished works has further broadened opportunities for creativity. “Students can connect with material that resonates with them, making the learning experience more meaningful,” notes Ashton.
Global recognition and a competitive edge
One of the standout benefits of Trinity’s qualifications is their international reputation. “Having a qualification from a globally recognised body gives our students a point of difference,” says Ashton “When students apply for competitive university courses or a place in halls of residence, or want to take on leadership roles, a Trinity Grade 8 qualification in communication or drama helps them stand out.”
This global perspective also resonates with parents, who value the prestige and practicality of Trinity’s offerings. As Ashton puts it, “It feels like an achievement that’s bigger than just New Zealand. It’s not insular—it’s part of a global standard.”
The partnership between Trinity College London and Saint Kentigern College exemplifies the transformative power of a well-structured, flexible curriculum. Trinity’s qualifications have not only equipped students with essential skills but have also empowered educators to deliver impactful lessons. The results are evident in the programme’s growth, the success of its students, and the enhanced reputation of the school’s drama department.
For Saint Kentigern, Trinity’s drama qualifications represent more than just an extracurricular activity. They are a gateway to personal growth, academic achievement, and global recognition, ensuring that every student’s journey is as unique and rewarding as the performances they create.