After School: Monthly Group Practice

Public speaking is a skill, and like any skill, it takes practice to stay sharp.

We’ve learned that one of the fastest ways to build confidence is to face your fears regularly. That’s why we’ve reimagined After School as a monthly event designed to help you refine your public speaking in a supportive and engaging environment.

Here’s how it works:

Each month, we set a theme for the evening.

  • You prepare a 3-min speech based on that theme.

  • On the night, you’ll deliver your speech, receive constructive feedback, and even have the option to get your speech recorded, edited, and sent to you.

  • We vote for the best speech to celebrate everyone’s efforts and growth.

  • To kick things off and help you get into the flow, we start each session with fun warm-up games and impromptu speaking exercises.

We also occasionally invite special guest coaches to teach workshops designed to help you grow your confidence and communication skills. Previous workshops have included improv, the Meisner technique, voice training, and mindset coaching, offering fresh ways to challenge yourself and develop as a speaker.

Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills, manage your nerves, or just enjoy the challenge of public speaking, these sessions are open to everyone—no prior experience with our courses required.

January’s Theme:

For January’s speeches, the theme is “Embracing Imperfection”. Participants are asked to prepare a 3-minute speech on this topic in advance.

Additionally, if you’d prefer not to deliver a prepared speech, you are welcome to come and take part in the warm-ups and impromptu speaking exercises and just observe the prepared speeches instead.

Class Date:

Monday, 27th January 2025, 7-9pm - book your space below.

A woman practising public speaking in front of an audience
A group of students practising speaking exercises

What’s Included

A group of people doing a group speaking exercise in front of an audience

Warm-ups

We love starting every session with ice breaker warm-ups inspired by improv games. These fun, interactive activities are designed to help you shake off any nerves, get out of your head, and ease into the session. They’re a great way to loosen up, connect with others, and set the tone for an engaging and productive class.

A man and woman doing a speaking exercise

Improv Speaking Exercises

Improv speaking exercises are specifically designed to help you think on your feet, embrace spontaneity, and trust your instincts. By stepping out of your comfort zone in a supportive environment, you’ll develop the ability to stay present and handle unexpected moments with ease. Each session will dedicate a short time to these exercises, helping you sharpen your quick-thinking and speaking skills while having fun in the process.

Man practice public speaking

Speech Delivery

Each month, participants prepare a speech based on our set theme, giving you the chance to explore a variety of topics and subjects. During the session, you’ll deliver your prepared speech to the group, gaining valuable experience speaking in front of an audience. At the end of the evening, we’ll vote on the standout speech, and you’ll also have the opportunity to receive constructive feedback from both the group and the trainer.

How to find us

 

After School monthly sessions take place at the Old Diorama Arts Centre in London.

Old Diorama Arts Centre, 201 Drummond Street, Regent's Place, London, NW1 3FE.

Registrations and payment needed in advance of class - you can sign up below using our pas-as-you-go or membership options.

Please note:

*Our venue might be subject to change on the odd occasion, however, you will be notified in advance if so.

*On days when classes fall on a bank holiday, we will move the session to another day that week.

How to join

Woman practice public speaking

£18 per class