Highfield and Brookham's LAMDA record falls again as pupils take starring role

Artistic pupils at an independent school in Hampshire have once again secured top billing – thanks to another record-breaking set of LAMDA exam results.

The proud young performers at Highfield and Brookham Schools picked up an extraordinary 81 Distinctions and 30 Merits in the prestigious annual exams run by the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA).

The 111 honours earned this year follows 71 distinctions and merits a year ago – also up on the previous year – to underscore the consistent quality of drama teaching at the Liphook school, with three more Year 8 pupils earning drama scholarships at senior schools in September.

The outstanding achievement continues a rich vein of theatrical form which has seen Highfield and Brookham Schools become ever more renowned for their dramatic provision, in addition to their already lofty reputation for top academic, artistic and sporting prowess.

Highfield School Head Suzannah Cryer, who rejoined the school in the summer having previously been Head of Drama at the rural prep school, said: “I’ve always been impressed by the dramatic provision at Highfield and the wonderful and dedicated staff who teach it, but I am absolutely in awe of what these children have achieved. These results are simply fantastic and all of the children should be incredibly proud of their achievements.”

Guided by experienced teachers Sarah Baird, Susannah Wilson, Sarah Dungworth and Sammy Swanborough, the pupils made light work of any threat of stage fright to hit the heights in style, with the quartet of Eliza Welby-Everard, Theo Kauntze, Albie Black and Gabriel Church taking starring roles with 96 out of a possible 100 marks.

Highfield and Brookham children are no strangers to the stage as the school has a proud record of putting on performances for every year group throughout the year, from Nursery right up to Year 8, which gives even the youngest children a real taste of drama.

And that early exposure is paying dividends in the form of impressive LAMDA results.

Mrs Cryer added: “I am so proud of every single child, but I must also thank every LAMDA teacher for the fantastic job they do – building confidence, self-esteem and enhancing communication skills are at the forefront of any child’s personal development.”

One of the big dramatic highlights of the last academic year was the stunning adaptation of hit musical Joseph And His Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, which brought down the curtain on the Year 8s’ time at Highfield.