In a resounding display of talent and dedication, students from Gateway School of Speech and Drama have once again proven their mettle in the realm of performing arts. With the remarkable feat of acquiring 14 Associate of Trinity College London (ATCL) diplomas and 3 Licentiate of Trinity College London (LTCL) diplomas, these budding students have left an indelible mark of excellence. Amidst the cohort of celebrated achievers, three students from Gateway School of Speech and Drama distinguished themselves by clinching the prestigious LTCL diplomas in Speech and Drama Performing.

Chanumi Nehansa Vidanagamachchi emerged triumphant, securing the coveted prize for LTCL – Performing (Speech and Drama), while Saarah Maryam Mirshad attained an honourable mention in the same category. Their exceptional proficiency in Speech and Drama shone brightly at the recently concluded Trinity College London’s Sri Lankan chapter’s prize giving. Gateway School of Speech and Drama has consistently been at the forefront of producing high achievers. In 2019, Reynal Adrien Jayatilake claimed the prize for LTCL Performer (Speech and Drama), whereas Kumudri Chavika Goonetilleke and Kavindi Chamathka Jayasekara garnered Honourable Mentions. This legacy of excellence extends back to 2016 when Imaan Mohamed also earned an Honourable Mention for the same category.

In 2022 Malsha Charundi Ratnayake and Sihan Romal Perera emerged as the Honourable Mention winners for ATCL Performer (Speech and Drama) Adding to this illustrious tradition, Minuri Kavithma Jayasekara joined the ranks of LTCL achievers, obtaining her LTCL – Performing (Speech and Drama) at this year’s awards ceremony. In a display of extraordinary ambition and skill, six students, all aged 17, demonstrated their prowess by completing two ATCL diplomas each in Speech and Drama: Performing and Public Speaking in a single sitting.

Their determination and commitment exemplify the spirit of excellence fostered at Gateway School of Speech and Drama. The students who archived dual diplomas are Muthunima Abhimanee Rajapakse, Leenadhie Emethma Samaraweera, Senithi Dahamdhi Ekanayake, Methuli Sri Nammuni, Kenolee Perera and Bumitha Ashan Perera. Wathsari Minasi Sadinsa Dunusinghe and Nethya Stephnie Karunaratne also obtained their Associate Diplomas in Speech and Drama Performing. Not only Gateway School of Speech and Drama, but Gateway Colleges also extend the opportunity for students to pursue the Associate of Trinity College London (ATCL) qualification as an optional subject at the Advanced Subsidiary (AS) level.

This initiative allows students to delve deeper into their passion for the performing arts while simultaneously enriching their academic journey. Throughout their Advanced Level years, they sit for ATCL Performing Arts as well as Speech and Drama examinations obtaining dual diplomas during their final school years. Last year, at Gateway College Dehiwala, three dedicated students, Michelle Claudia Panagoda, Saumya Senali Fernando, and Asishath Minha Mauroof successfully completed their ATCL qualifications, marking a significant milestone in their educational and artistic pursuits. Their commitment and perseverance underscore the support and resources provided by Gateway Colleges in nurturing students’ talents and facilitating their academic growth.

Gateway College Dehiwala, which introduced the programme in 2022, has swiftly established itself as a hub for nurturing artistic talent and academic excellence. In its inaugural year, the school proudly celebrated the achievement of Akmal Hamid, who emerged as a prize winner for ATCL Performing Arts. Gateway School of Speech and Drama so far has produced 51 Associates and 12 Licentiates of Trinity College London, 14 Performers Certificate holders of London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA), 13 Licentiates of Colombo Academy of Language Skills and Dramatic Art (CALSDA) and nearly 600 medallists of London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA), and Gateway Colleges have produced 8 Associates of Trinity College London and nearly 500 medallists of London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA).

Gateway School of Speech and Drama and Gateway Colleges remain steadfast in upholding the legacy of excellence, providing students with the guidance, resources, and opportunities essential for success in the competitive world of performing arts. As these talented individuals forge ahead on their paths, they carry not only the accolades they’ve earned but also the invaluable skills and experiences cultivated during their time at Gateway. Their remarkable achievements serve as a beacon of inspiration to aspiring artists and further solidify the school’s status as a premier institution for nurturing the stars of tomorrow.