The Lir Academy launches speech and drama syllabus for young people

The Lir Academy has announced the launch of a new speech and drama syllabus designed for young actors between the ages of 5 and 18.

"The initiative aims to redefine how dramatic arts are taught to primary and secondary school-aged students across the county," according to organisers.

Developed by theatre educators and practitioners, the curriculum leans towards playfulness and curiosity for young children rather than memory-based rote learning, focusing on cultivating core life skills and personal confidence.

The initiative will partner with a network of nationwide speech and drama schools. The official rollout of the syllabus will begin in September 2026 in founding partner schools and The Lir's Youth Academy. The first round of regional assessments are due to take place across Ireland in April and May 2027.

"The Lir Academy is thrilled to launch its inaugural year of speech and drama examinations," outlined Gemma Bodinetz, Director and CEO of the academy.

"Through meaningful collaboration, we are excited to partner with drama schools to expand imaginative landscapes and empower the next generation of creative thinkers to confidently make their mark on the world stage.”

"Industry standards are shifting; directors and creative leaders are looking for young performers who display genuine creative agency, active imagination, and emotional resilience," director Dearbhla Walsh (Bad Sisters, Fargo) said.

"This programme allows educators to treat young people as creative collaborators."

Speech and drama teachers, academy directors and independent school owners are invited to register interest to Roger Evans, head of youth training via [email protected].