Why Trinity Acting exams are the best choice for Sherborne Girls
“Trinity’s syllabus is closer in style to the way you have to think and approach drama in the real world as an actor.”
Mark Freestone, Speech and drama teacher, Sherborne Girls
Mark Freestone’s decision to transition to the Trinity College London Acting syllabus in 2019 was influenced by his professional acting background, his transformational teaching approach and his belief that Trinity’s exam framework aligns more closely with real-world acting. Unlike syllabuses from other exam boards, Mark feels that the flexibility offered by Trinity nurtures creativity and imagination; core components of Mark’s teaching philosophy. Mark highlights that Trinity’s focus on character development in the Acting exam tasks encourages students to engage with acting in the same way as industry professionals; thinking outside the box, embracing imagination and avoiding rigid, formulaic performances.
Building confidence and creativity with Trinity Acting exams
“Imagination is at the heart of what we do, believing in your imagination is what acting is all about.”
Speech and drama lessons at Sherborne Girls are offered as an extracurricular activity. Classes are structured to support progression from the Foundation Acting grades, to Grade 8 and onto the ATCL diploma. Mark uses the Trinity syllabus to develop acting techniques with a focus on creative expression. Through his teaching, Mark’s emphasis on "play" and imagination creates an environment where students learn to trust their instincts and experiment freely. By progressing through the exams, Mark sees his students gain both confidence and practical acting skills.
Unlocking potential: Growing real-world skills through drama
“Drama creates an inclusive environment where every student can find their voice and flourish.”
Mark’s teaching approach is impactful for all students. One neurodiverse student initially struggled with public speaking and had failed an important interview. After working with Mark and progressing through the Trinity Acting exams, she achieved Grade 8 and delivered a successful performance at the school's final showcase, marking a significant turning point in her development.
Mark observes that students gain empathy and confidence by engaging with a wide range of theatrical styles and working in mixed groups. He believes that student progression through the exams plays a key role in their growth. He highlights that many students who are initially shy, hesitant and often reluctant to speak in front of others, transform into confident individuals willing to step out of their comfort zones and tackle more complex roles.
Transforming students through Trinity Acting exams
“What we’re trying to do at Sherborne Girls' is prepare our students to enter today's challenging world, which can feel pretty scary. We want to give them as much confidence and self-belief as we can — and Trinity Drama truly does that!”
Mark notes that the skills developed through the Trinity syllabus extend far beyond the stage. He observes that students gain valuable life skills, including public speaking, creative problem-solving, and the ability to manage nerves—skills essential for success in the real world. Reflecting on a recent student’s achievements, Mark recalls how she successfully navigated a Cambridge University interview after preparing in his classes. He points out that drama’s emphasis on quick thinking and adaptability helped her transform her nerves into confidence.
One of Mark’s former students, now an army officer, credits her success to the creative problem-solving, empathy, and adaptability she developed in Mark’s lessons. In her moving speech at the school’s annual prizegiving, she emphasised how these transferable skills continue to shape her career. She also shared that her drama education helped nurture her empathy. Mark firmly believes that drama encourages compassion, helping students understand different perspectives, an essential life skill.
Mark observes that students develop teamwork skills through collaboration with their peers, gaining confidence to express themselves freely in both solo and group performances. He points out that 90% of the girls involved in whole-school productions are his pupils, highlighting how the skills developed in his classes extend far beyond the classroom.
Mark reflects that his approach to teaching drama, centered on authenticity, helps prepare his students for the real world. He believes that by encouraging confidence and self-belief, students are better equipped to face the challenges beyond school. He adds with enthusiasm that preparing for the Trinity Acting exams plays a crucial role in instilling these values, enabling his students to approach life with greater self-assurance.
Mark’s teaching methods, combined with the Trinity Acting syllabus, encourage students to be themselves. This growth mindset allows students to approach all areas of life with greater confidence. As Mark summarises:
“Drama encourages students to trust their instincts and express their opinions freely. There are no ‘wrong’ answers in drama, only different ways of expression. I’m so pleased that the Trinity College London Acting syllabus allows my students to do just that.”