Ms. SHIHARA's

Communication Skills
and
Speech and Drama
Classes

byShihara Dias-Bandaranayake

Award Winning Teacher, Examiner, Consultant, Workshop Facilitator, Adjudicator, Teacher Trainer & Corporate Trainer/
Member of Society of Teachers of Speech and Drama (UK)
(LTCL(UK)/ ATCL(UK)/ LAMDA Gold Medal(UK)/ PC-TCL(UK)/ CIMA (UK)/ MBA (UK)

Leadership through Creative Communication:
Nurturing Future Leaders Through Drama & Communication.

Welcome!

Testimonials from
Past and Present Students of
Ms. Shihara

I'm Shihara Dias Bandaranayake, a dedicated educator specializing in developing future-ready skills through drama and communication. My innovative program empowers children and young adults with the essential competencies needed for tomorrow's world, using the transformative power of performing arts.

Why I’m Dedicated to Helping Kids Develop Essential Communication Skills

Through my work with both schoolchildren and working professionals, I've developed a deep understanding of the skills gap people face between the classroom and the workplace. I've seen firsthand how adults in the workforce struggle with essential skills like communication, public speaking, and confidence. Many are unable to achieve promotions or advance in their careers because they lack these crucial abilities. At the same time, recent global studies show the workplace of the future will require a very different skillset than what's traditionally taught in schools. And today's children are spending 4-6 hours a day on digital devices, reducing opportunities to develop these important interpersonal and leadership abilities which will someday help them excel in their chosen careers. Even in the age of AI and automation, these human skills like communication, emotional intelligence and collaboration are more important than ever. Employers are seeking candidates who can complement technology with these essential abilities.
Based on this research and my direct experiences, I know it's much harder to change these skills in adults compared to training children from a younger age. That's why I'm dedicated to bridging this gap early on. By working directly with students through drama, performance, and other fun and engaging activities, I'm able to help them build the real-world skills employers are seeking. This equips the next generation with the confidence and capabilities they need to succeed in the modern workplace, rather than trying to play catch-up later in life. My goal is to empower young people and better prepare them for the realities they'll face in their future career paths.

Professional Certifications for Students

In addition to skill development, I prepare students for graded examinations and diploma qualifications from esteemed institutions, including:
1. Trinity College of London, UK (Ofqual certified)
2. London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA), UK (Ofqual certified)
3. Institute of Music, Speech and Speaking Skills (IMSSS), Sri Lanka
4. British Lanka Festivals for the Performing Arts (BLFPA) affiliated to the British and International Federation of FestivalsNote: Students achieving Grade 6 and above in Trinity College of London and LAMDA examinations earn valuable UCAS points for university admissions.

Comprehensive Skills Development

Our students build an array of skills such as,Performance Skills through;
- Acting (Solo, Duo & Group performances)
- Shakespeare Acting
- Mime & Improvisation
- Verse & Prose Speaking
- Story Telling
- ComperingProfessional Communication Skills through;
- Public Speaking & Presentations
- TV News Reading
- Persuasive & Negotiation Skills
- Business Communication
- Spoken English DevelopmentProfessional Communication Skills through;
- Public Speaking & Presentations
- TV News Reading
- Persuasive & Negotiation Skills
- Business Communication
- Spoken English DevelopmentCreative and Personal Development through;
- Creative Writing (Verse & Prose)
- Analytical Thinking
- Self-Confidence Building
- Emotional Expression
- Time Management
- Goal SettingFuture-Ready Leadership Skills through;
- Critical Problem-Solving
- Strategic Decision Making
- Emotional Intelligence
- Adaptability & Resilience
- Innovation & Creative Thinking
- Digital Age CommunicationCollaborative Excellence through;
- Team Building & Group Dynamics
- Interpersonal Relationships
- Conflict Resolution
- Cross-Cultural Communication
- Active Listening
- Peer Leadership

Program Benefits

- Strong leadership presence
- Enhanced social skills
- Global perspective
- Creative problem-solving abilities
- Professional communication style
- Lasting self-confidence
- Growth mindset

Other than this, I have developed an effective six step method to help early readers learn and practice reading, which is called the UPPERR© method. You can learn more about the UPPERR© method here.
Scan the below QR code to visit the UPPERR© method website:

Program Details

• Age Groups: 5 years and above• Class Format: Online and face-to-face options
Note: It is recommended to have face-to-face sessions, as they are especially beneficial for children. This subject emphasizes personal development and teamwork, and children engage more effectively when they can interact directly with their peers in a classroom environment, compared to a solitary online setting.• Schedule: Weekly sessionsThe levels and recommended age groups are as follows:

Age	Level
5 - 7 years	Level 1
8 - 9 years	Level 2
10 - 11 years	Level 3
12 - 13 years	Level 4
14 - 15 years	Level 5
16 - 17 years	Level 6
17 years & above	P/C & Diploma level

Our Approach

Every student's journey is unique. I provide personalized attention and tailored resources to help each individual discover their strengths and overcome challenges. Our curriculum integrates traditional performing arts with modern skill development, preparing students for success in an ever-evolving world.

What some of my students and parents have to say.

*****
"This is the best class my children ever had. I'm so happy to see the improvement of my kids day by day with teacher's various methods and activities. Shihara teacher is very methodical and has well planned work schedules for regular work as well as exam work throughout the year. So she always ensures all children are well practiced before the exams. I believe streamlined plans and preparation are the secrets of victories of her students. As a working mother I found it very easy to manage children's class works with the teacher due to proper and latest communication methods she used and her way of informing required details in advance always. I feel so glad to have exposed my children to the great personality of this teacher at their younger ages. I wish all the best wishes for her future endeavours".-Kaushalya Wanniarachchi (Parent)*****
"I was so fortunate to study under Ms. Shihara from the Preliminary level to the ATCL Diploma in Performing (Speech and Drama) examination. Her lessons were not only interesting and fun but also incredibly informative. I owe much of my success as a Speech and Drama teacher with a distinction in the ATCL diploma today to her guidance".-Nisadi Kularatna (Speech and Drama and Communication Skills teacher)*****
"I highly recommend Shihara teacher for her exceptional teaching skills. Shihara teacher has unique ability to inspire and engage students. My kid suddenly developed interest in English and he is performing very well. Shihara teacher is creating a positive and supportive learning environment for students.I highly recommend Shihara teacher and I am confident she will make my kid strong".-Salini Manavi (Parent)*****
"Looking back on my journey, I am immensely grateful for this transformative experience that has boosted my confidence and speaking skills. The supportive environment has been invaluable to my overall growth".-W.A.K. Sanolee (University student)*****
"Ms. Shihara inspired me with her dedication and expertise in shaping my life in words I can't express. Looking back at who I was then and who I am now, I see a different self with so much confidence. I'm forever grateful for everything".-Senandhi Liyanage (Student and Deputy Head Prefect of Holy Cross College, Gampaha)*****"This is one of the best classes my kid has ever gone to. The teacher is very understanding and methodical when it comes to teaching. She does a lot of fun activities with the kids to make them enjoy the process of learning. She is more like a friend to the kids than a teacher. My child became interested in learning English and improved a lot because of Shihara teacher's guidance".-Cherika Comani (Parent)*****

In today's rapidly changing world, success requires more than just academic excellence.
Together, let's equip your child with the comprehensive skills they need to thrive in tomorrow's world.

Connect With Me

Ready to prepare your child for future success through award winning teaching methods?I'm always available to discuss your child's needs and answer any questions about my programs.• Send a message on WhatsApp or call on
052 359 8833

Connect with me through social media to see more reviews, free tutorials/exercises and the latest news and achievements of my students:

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