Trinity College of London ATCL Diploma Program Enrolling Now for 2023

Congratulations to Chantel Nguyen from The Speech and Drama studio who completed her TRINITY College of London ATCL DIPLOMA in Communication (Public Speaking).

“Throughout the preparation process of my diploma, I was tasked with presenting speeches in a variety of context, ranging from a class reunion, a farewell speech to two colleagues leaving the company, to a news feature for radio. The task challenged me to consider varying aspects of an audience, ranging from their background, as well influencing factors such as culture, and social contexts. I began the process by firstly questioning myself on the purpose for giving the speech, whether it was to motivate, inspire, or to persuade a particular point of view. I was able to explore the various stages of presenting a great speech, through different styles of delivery, controlling modulation, and fostering authentic engagement through body language. The viva voce section was very enjoyable as its conversational style allowed me to be more relaxed, and therefore able to articulate my thoughts clearly and discuss my intentions behind the preparation. I drew on elements of the intentions of my speech and its audience. I was also presented with an excerpt from a speech, followed by a discussion with the examiner on some stylistic features of the speech and the cultural context surrounding it. Overall, my ATCL Communication Diploma exam has been a very enjoyable experience, the examiner was super supportive and was genuinely engaged in what I had to say.”

Chantel Nguyen (Year 12)


Year 11 and Year 12 students may complete an ATCL Diploma in Performance or Communication skills. 

  • Students will achieve performance standards that are comparable with other qualifications available in the UK at Level 4 on the Regulated Qualifications Framework or the first year of degree-level study.
  • Candidates who have passed a Trinity diploma are entitled to use the letters standing for that diploma after their name.
  • ATCL stands for Associate of Trinity College London.
  • Diplomas can assist students with University entry.
  • Students must be at least 17 years of age and have completed a Grade 8 Trinity examination.
  • ATCL Communication Skills (Public Speaking)

This year we have had the pleasure of adding the Trinity ATCL Diploma in Communication Skills (Public Speaking) exam to our programs. This Diploma encourages the students to become proficient, thoughtful presenters in a variety of settings. The candidates attain elevated communication skills that are comparable with similar qualifications in the first year of degree-level study. 

The exam preparation allows the students to gain and hone their proficiency in interpretation and spoken presentation in diverse contexts. They explore numerous techniques of public speaking and garner key knowledge of practice methodologies. They further learn essential vocal and physical techniques which enable them to face any real-life situations with ease and confidence.   

  • ATCL Performing (Speech and Drama)
  • ATCL Performing (Performance Arts)
  • ATCL Performing (Musical Theatre)

The ATCL (Performing) Diploma can be taken in Speech and Drama, Performance Arts or Musical Theatre. The Diplomas allow the students to perform their pieces, learn fundamental skills and reflect on their work. It provides a solid stepping-stone onto the path of creative work and careers in the media and entertainment industries.  

ATCL in Performance is a great addition to anyone studying and wishing to pursue a career in the entertainment industry (be it as an actor, musical theatre performer, designer, producer and so on). This diploma inspires students to become multi-skilled, thoughtful performers and able to create work at a level that demonstrate professional potential. All candidates are expected to reach performance benchmarks that are comparable with professional standards. They learn about various acting techniques, explore different methods, and study rehearsal methodologies as well as the principles and practice of voice, speech, oral interpretation, and characterisation. They also study planning and contextual awareness and communicating ideas through performance. 

Learning outcomes 

To achieve this qualification the candidate will be able to: 

  • Demonstrate a sound knowledge of the fundamental concepts of speech and drama/performance arts/musical theatre/oral communication
  • Use different approaches to solve problems
  • Communicate accurately with clear intent 
  • Appreciate the main principles of the discipline, and the limits of their current capabilities and knowledge in relation to it 
  • Undertake small-scale investigative or development activities, using appropriate methods and techniques 
  • Operate in moderately critical situations where success depends on choosing appropriate responses

 

Assessment criteria 

The unit has defined assessment objectives and these are measured using the following criteria: 

  • Techniques – use a wide range of physical and vocal skills, using physical space creatively 
  • Communication – adopt and sustain roles, working spontaneously where appropriate 
  • Planning and contextual awareness – respond imaginatively to the quality, form, content and context of a variety of texts, and reflect upon personal performance 
  • Integration of skills, knowledge and awareness

The Trinity Diploma certificates are recognised worldwide, and each certificate is a fantastic achievement and can be used as support material for scholarships, universities as well as workforce positions. 

Click here to enrol

– Monica Brian
Speech and Drama Studio Director