Acting Out Drama School (AODS) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Welcome to Acting Out Drama School (AODS), a multi-award-winning drama and public speaking school based in Edinburgh, Scotland, offering in-person classes, professional training and flexible online courses for adults, young people and businesses.

Established in 2004, AODS provides acting classes, professional acting training, public speaking coaching, presentation skills, specialist acting courses and corporate training. Whether you are a complete beginner, an experienced performer, a professional looking to improve your communication or someone who wants to build confidence, we offer training designed to help you develop practical skills in a supportive and challenging environment.

Explore our frequently asked questions to find out more about our courses, teaching approach, online programmes, qualifications and how to choose the right training for you.

About Acting Out Drama School

What is Acting Out Drama School?

Acting Out Drama School (AODS) is a multi-award-winning drama and public speaking school established in 2004 and based in Edinburgh, Scotland. We specialise in acting, performance, public speaking, presentation skills and communication training for adults, young people and corporate clients. We offer face-to-face classes in Edinburgh and flexible online courses for students across the UK and internationally.

Our training ranges from beginner-friendly drama classes and specialist acting workshops to professional acting programmes, public speaking courses and one-to-one coaching. We aim to provide high-quality practical training that helps students develop their skills, confidence and performance ability.

Where is Acting Out Drama School based?

AODS is based in Edinburgh, Scotland, with in-person training offered at venues in Edinburgh and the surrounding area, including Peebles for selected programmes and all over the UK for corporate clients. We also offer online acting and public speaking courses, enabling students to train from anywhere with an internet connection.

Our online programmes are particularly useful for people who cannot attend weekly classes in person, live elsewhere in Scotland or the UK, or prefer to study flexibly around work, family and other commitments.

Is Acting Out Drama School an award-winning drama school?

Yes. Acting Out Drama School has received multiple awards for its work in drama education, acting and public speaking training. AODS has been recognised in the Scotland Prestige Awards, including Drama School of the Year in Scotland for 2024–2025, 2025-2026 and Acting School of the Year in 2026-2027. Its leadership and creative work have also received recognition.

The school has been featured in Forbes and other publications. These achievements reflect its commitment to providing engaging, practical training for aspiring actors, experienced performers, public speakers and people developing their professional communication skills.

What makes Acting Out Drama School different from other drama schools?

AODS combines practical training, experienced coaches, individual feedback and opportunities for progression in a supportive but challenging learning environment. Students can explore different acting methods, develop their performance skills, work towards public productions on designated courses and access specialist online training.

Unlike schools that focus exclusively on aspiring professional actors, AODS also welcomes people who want to act for enjoyment, build confidence, develop creativity or improve their communication. Its public speaking programmes apply skills drawn from acting and performance to real-world situations, including presentations, interviews and workplace communication.

Who teaches at Acting Out Drama School?

AODS works with experienced actors, directors, acting coaches, public speaking specialists and other professional trainers. Students benefit from practical industry knowledge, structured exercises and feedback tailored to the course and their level of experience.

The teaching team varies across programmes, allowing students to learn from coaches with relevant expertise in acting, performance, communication and specialist disciplines. Selected courses are led by AODS founder and Multi-Award-Winning Creative Arts Director Clare Cairns, alongside other experienced professionals.

Acting Classes and Acting Courses

Does AODS offer acting classes for beginners?

Yes. AODS offers beginner-friendly acting classes and online acting courses for adults who have little or no previous experience. You do not need to want to become a professional actor to take part.

Beginners can explore improvisation, characterisation, script work, voice, movement and performance in a supportive environment. Our training is suitable for people who want to try something new, develop creativity, meet like-minded people or build confidence.

Explore our Beginners Drama Course for face-to-face training in Edinburgh, or visit our online programmes page for flexible study options.

What acting courses does Acting Out Drama School offer?

AODS offers a range of acting courses for different levels of experience and career goals. Options include beginners, intermediate and advanced acting classes, professional acting training, an Acting Diploma, online acting courses and specialist programmes focusing on particular acting techniques.

Specialist online training includes courses such as Stanislavski Intensive, Mastering Michael Chekhov and Self-Tape & Auditions. Course availability, dates and entry requirements vary by programme.

Visit our Professional Acting Training page to compare the main routes, or explore our online acting and public speaking programmes.

Can I train to become a professional actor at AODS?

Yes. AODS offers professional acting training for people who want to pursue a career in acting. Options include the Professional Acting Course, the Acting Diploma, the Online Acting Diploma and advanced acting training.

Depending on the programme, students can develop their acting technique, work on scripts and scenes, prepare for auditions, build practical industry knowledge and gain performance experience. Selected courses include opportunities such as showreel development, professional showcases or performances attended by agents.

Professional acting is a competitive industry, and no course can guarantee employment or agency representation. Our programmes are designed to help students develop their craft and prepare for the demands of the profession.

Do I need acting experience to enrol at AODS?

Not necessarily. AODS offers courses for complete beginners as well as intermediate, advanced and professional-level performers.

Beginner courses are suitable for people with no previous acting experience. Intermediate and advanced courses may require previous training, experience or an audition. Professional programmes also have their own entry requirements.

If you are unsure which course is right for you, review the individual course descriptions or contact AODS for guidance before enrolling.

Can I study acting online with AODS?

Yes. AODS offers online acting courses for adults, allowing students to study from anywhere in the UK or internationally. Programmes range from beginner acting and specialist acting techniques to self-taping, auditions and the Online Acting Diploma.

Most online programmes offer flexible access to learning materials through an online training portal, with video lessons, exercises and practical assignments. Selected courses include personalised feedback from an acting professional, helping students apply what they learn to their own work.

Online courses are ideal for people who need flexibility or cannot attend face-to-face classes in Edinburgh.

Can I get feedback from a professional acting coach on an online course?

Yes. Selected AODS online acting courses include personalised feedback on submitted practical work. Students complete exercises or assignments and receive guidance from an experienced acting professional, helping them understand their strengths and areas for development.

The amount of feedback and the number of submissions included depend on the course. Check the individual programme page for details of its assignments, feedback arrangements and expected response times.

Does AODS offer acting qualifications or diplomas?

Yes. AODS offers an Acting Diploma, an Online Acting Diploma, and Professional Acting Course, with an optional Trinity College London ATCL qualification route on the relevant programme. Other courses may offer certification or CPD recognition, depending on the course.

The qualification, assessment requirements, awarding organisation and any additional fees vary by programme. Please check the specific course page to confirm exactly what is included before enrolling.

Can I progress from beginners acting to advanced or professional training?

Yes. AODS offers different levels of training, enabling students to develop their skills over time. You may start with a beginners drama course, progress to intermediate or advanced acting, and then consider a professional acting programme if your experience and ambitions make that appropriate.

Progression is not automatic for every course. Some programmes have audition requirements or assess whether applicants have the experience needed to participate successfully at the next level.

Acting Classes and Drama Training

Where can I find professional acting classes in Edinburgh?

Acting Out Drama School offers acting classes and professional actor training in Edinburgh for adults at different levels, from complete beginners to experienced performers. Courses include beginners, intermediate and advanced acting, professional actor training, acting diplomas, screen acting and specialist performance workshops.

Can I train to become an actor in Scotland without moving to London?

Yes. Acting Out Drama School offers structured acting training in Edinburgh, Scotland, including professional acting development, practical performance training, screen acting, audition preparation and diploma programmes. Students can develop their skills locally while gaining experience and understanding of the wider UK acting industry.

What is the difference between an acting class and a professional acting course?

An acting class can be suitable for people who want to explore drama, build confidence or develop their performance skills. A professional acting course is generally more intensive and structured, with a stronger focus on acting technique, audition preparation, performance standards and preparing for the demands of the acting industry. AODS offers both recreational and professional training pathways.

Can I study acting in Scotland and gain a recognised qualification?

Yes. AODS offers acting training with qualification pathways, including an optional ATCL Performing Qualification through Trinity College London on the relevant diploma programme. Students should check individual course details to understand the assessment requirements, fees and certification available.

Online Acting Courses

What is the best online acting course in the UK for beginners?

Acting Out Drama School offers online acting training for beginners and developing performers, including an Online Beginners Acting Course and an Online Acting Diploma. The diploma includes a Becoming an Actor module, practical assignments and personalised tutor feedback, making it accessible to beginners who are ready to undertake structured actor training.

Can I get professional acting feedback on an online acting course?

Yes. The AODS Online Acting Diploma includes personalised feedback from experienced acting coaches on submitted assignments. Students can work on practical acting exercises, monologues, scene work and filmed performance tasks while studying remotely.

Can I study acting online and still prepare for professional auditions?

Yes. AODS online acting training includes practical work in character development, script analysis, monologues, screen acting and self-tape preparation. The Online Self-Tape and Auditions course also provides focused training for performers who want to improve their audition technique.

Do I need an audition to join the AODS Online Acting Diploma?

No traditional audition is required for the Online Acting Diploma. Applicants complete a short application and screening process. The programme is open to beginners and performers with previous experience, subject to the application process and available places.

Acting Techniques and Specialist Training

Where can I learn Stanislavski acting techniques in the UK?

AODS offers specialist Stanislavski training as part of its online acting programmes and diploma curriculum. Students explore characterisation, objectives, motivation, imagination, active analysis and truthful performance, developing a practical understanding of one of the most influential approaches to modern acting.

Can I study Michael Chekhov acting techniques online?

Yes. AODS offers specialist online training in Michael Chekhov techniques, exploring imagination, psychological gesture, atmosphere, movement and creative physical work. This training is suitable for actors who want to broaden their performance technique and explore a different approach to character development.

Does AODS offer Shakespeare and classical acting training?

Yes. Shakespeare and classical performance are included in relevant AODS acting programmes. Students explore text analysis, verse, language, character interpretation and the practical techniques needed to bring classical writing to life.

Can I learn screen acting and self-taping online?

Yes. AODS offers online screen acting and self-tape training, covering performance for camera, script preparation, character choices, audition technique and creating effective self-tapes.

Public Speaking and Communication Training

Does Acting Out Drama School offer public speaking courses in Edinburgh?

Yes. AODS offers public speaking and presentation skills training in Edinburgh for adults who want to communicate with greater confidence, clarity and impact. Courses are suitable for beginners, professionals, business owners, managers and anyone who needs to speak in front of other people.

Training combines practical public speaking techniques with skills drawn from acting and performance. Depending on the programme, this may include voice, breath, body language, stage presence, audience engagement, presentation structure and managing nerves.

Explore our Public Speaking Course for current course details.

Can AODS help me overcome a fear of public speaking?

Yes. AODS provides public speaking training for people who experience nerves, anxiety or a lack of confidence when speaking in front of others. Our approach focuses on practical techniques to help you manage your voice, breathing, body language and performance under pressure.

You do not need previous acting or public speaking experience to begin. Courses are designed to help you practise in a supportive environment and apply what you learn to presentations, meetings, interviews and other speaking situations.

Individual results vary, but regular practice and appropriate coaching can help you develop greater control and confidence.

What is the difference between public speaking training and presentation skills training?

Public speaking training focuses on communicating effectively in front of an audience, whether delivering a speech, giving a talk or addressing a group. Presentation skills training also covers the structure and delivery of presentations, including how to organise information, engage an audience and communicate ideas clearly.

At AODS, these skills overlap. Training may include voice and vocal impact, body language, managing nerves, storytelling, audience connection, improvisation and delivering messages with greater clarity and confidence.

Does AODS offer online public speaking courses?

Yes. AODS offers online public speaking training for adults who want to improve their confidence, presentation skills and communication without attending a weekly in-person class.

Online programmes provide flexible access to learning materials and practical exercises. Selected courses include feedback and guidance to help students apply the techniques to their own speaking situations.

Our online training is suitable for professionals, entrepreneurs, managers, students and anyone who wants to become a more confident and effective speaker.

Explore our Online Public Speaking Course for further information.

Can I book private one-to-one public speaking coaching?

Yes. AODS offers private public speaking lessons for people who want personalised support with their communication. Sessions can be tailored to your goals, whether you are preparing for a presentation, interview, speech, business pitch or important meeting.

Depending on your needs, coaching may cover presentation structure, voice, breath, confidence, body language, audience engagement and performing under pressure. Online sessions are available, with face-to-face options subject to location and availability.

Visit our Public Speaking Lessons page for booking information.

Does AODS offer public speaking training for businesses and organisations?

Yes. AODS provides corporate training and workshops for businesses, organisations, universities and teams. Training can focus on communication, presentations, leadership presence, teamwork, creative problem-solving, camera confidence and wellbeing.

Workshops are designed around the needs of the organisation and use practical, interactive exercises rather than relying solely on lectures. Delivery options and programme content depend on the brief, group size and training objectives.

Contact AODS to discuss your organisation's requirements and the available corporate training options.

Public Speaking and Communication

Where can I find a public speaking course in Edinburgh?

Acting Out Drama School offers public speaking courses in Edinburgh, including a structured nine-week programme, an intensive one-day retreat, workplace-focused training and private coaching. Courses help participants develop confidence, vocal technique, presentation skills, body language and audience engagement.

What is the best public speaking course for nervous beginners?

AODS offers public speaking training for people who feel nervous, anxious or inexperienced when speaking in front of others. Our courses use practical acting and performance techniques to develop confidence, manage pressure and improve speaking skills in a supportive training environment.

Can I learn how to speak confidently in meetings and at work?

Yes. AODS provides public speaking and presentation training specifically relevant to workplace situations. This can include contributing to meetings, delivering presentations, pitching ideas, speaking to colleagues and communicating confidently with clients.

Is there a short public speaking course for professionals who cannot attend a nine-week programme?

Yes. AODS offers shorter training options, including Public Speaking for Work and the Public Speaking Intensive. These programmes provide selected practical techniques from our wider public speaking training, helping professionals improve their communication without committing to a longer course.

Can acting techniques help me become a better public speaker?

Yes. Acting techniques can help people develop vocal expression, body language, presence, storytelling, emotional connection and confidence. AODS uses practical performance-based exercises to help public speakers become more engaging and communicate with greater impact.

Does AODS provide public speaking training for business owners and entrepreneurs?

Yes. Our public speaking and presentation training can help business owners, entrepreneurs, coaches and professionals deliver pitches, presentations, talks and business messages more confidently. Private coaching and corporate workshops can be tailored to specific professional goals.

Private Coaching and Mentoring

Where can I find private acting lessons in Edinburgh?

AODS offers private acting lessons for individuals who want one-to-one support with acting technique, character development, monologues, auditions, self-tapes and screen acting. Lessons can be tailored to the individual's experience and performance goals.

Can I book one-to-one public speaking coaching in Scotland?

Yes. AODS offers private public speaking lessons and coaching for individuals who want personalised support with presentations, speeches, interviews, pitches and professional communication. Training can focus on the specific skills and situations that matter most to you.

Does Clare Cairns offer private business mentoring?

Yes. Clare Cairns offers private six-week mentoring packages for business owners, coaches, creatives and professionals. Her business mentoring can include developing online courses, structuring workshops and programmes, creating digital learning offers, improving presentations and developing business ideas.

Can I have private acting and audition mentoring with Clare Cairns?

Yes. Clare offers private mentoring for actors and performers who want personalised guidance with acting technique, auditions, performance, professional development and career direction. Her mentoring can combine acting and performance work with wider professional communication and confidence development.

Does Clare Cairns offer mentoring for women returning to work after maternity leave?

Yes. One of Clare's private mentoring pathways focuses on returning to work, confidence and matrescence. It is designed for women navigating changes in identity, priorities and professional direction, including returning after maternity leave, considering a career change or starting a business.

Can private mentoring with Clare Cairns combine business, confidence and public speaking?

Yes. Clare's four mentoring pathways are not rigid or separate programmes. Public speaking, business development, acting and performance, and returning to work, confidence and matrescence can overlap. Each six-week package is tailored to the individual's goals and circumstances.

Corporate Training and Workplace Development

Where can businesses find corporate training in Edinburgh and Scotland?

Acting Out Drama School provides corporate training in Edinburgh, across Scotland and throughout the UK. Our workshops cover public speaking, presentation skills, communication, leadership presence, teamwork, camera confidence and workplace wellbeing. Training can be delivered at your organisation's premises or online.

What corporate communication skills training does AODS provide?

AODS offers practical communication training for employees, managers and leadership teams. Topics can include presenting with confidence, vocal communication, body language, handling difficult conversations, audience engagement, active listening and communicating effectively under pressure.

Can AODS provide bespoke corporate training for universities and organisations?

Yes. AODS works with businesses, universities, organisations and professional teams to create bespoke training programmes. Workshop content can be tailored to your objectives, the participants and the skills you want to develop.

Does AODS provide team-building workshops in Edinburgh?

Yes. AODS can deliver interactive team-building workshops using drama, improvisation and performance exercises. These activities encourage communication, collaboration, creativity and confidence, and can be adapted for corporate away days and team events.

Can you arrange a workplace public speaking workshop for women?

Yes. AODS can provide focused public speaking and confidence workshops for women in the workplace. These can cover presentation fundamentals, vocal confidence, speaking up in meetings, professional presence and communicating ideas effectively.

Does AODS provide leadership communication and executive presence training?

Yes. Our corporate training can help managers, business owners and leaders develop their professional presence, communication style and confidence. Training may include presenting, leading conversations, managing pressure, delivering messages and communicating with authority and clarity.

Can AODS provide presentation training for employees who need to present on camera?

Yes. Our camera confidence and presentation training helps professionals communicate naturally and effectively on screen. Participants can work on vocal delivery, body language, eye contact, confidence and presenting to camera for online meetings, recorded presentations and business content.

Can corporate training include wellbeing and stress-management activities?

Yes. AODS can incorporate wellbeing and performance-related activities such as Qigong, meditation, yoga, breathwork and relaxation into corporate workshops. These can be delivered as part of a wider training day or as a more focused wellbeing session.

Can AODS deliver a corporate workshop at our own venue?

Yes. Corporate workshops can be delivered at your workplace or another suitable venue. AODS can also provide online training for organisations with remote or geographically dispersed teams.

How do we arrange a bespoke corporate training programme with AODS?

Contact the AODS team with details of your organisation, the number of participants, your preferred dates and the outcomes you want to achieve. We can then discuss the most suitable workshop format, content and delivery options.

Qualifications, Accreditation and Professional Development

Is Acting Out Drama School recognised by Trinity College London?

Yes. AODS is a Trinity College London registered exam centre. Relevant programmes may include opportunities to work towards Trinity qualifications, subject to the course and assessment requirements.

Can I gain CPD recognition through AODS training?

Selected AODS programmes offer certificates or CPD recognition on successful completion. The recognition and assessment requirements depend on the individual course, so please check the relevant programme page before enrolling.

Can AODS training help me develop skills outside acting?

Yes. Acting and performance training can support communication, confidence, creativity, listening, collaboration, presentation skills and professional presence. Many people use these skills in business, education, leadership and everyday life, as well as in the performing arts.

Does AODS offer training for people who want to improve confidence rather than become actors?

Yes. Our drama and public speaking courses are suitable for people who want to improve confidence, communication, creativity and self-expression. You do not need to want a career in acting to benefit from our training.

Online Courses and Flexible Learning

Can I study with AODS if I do not live in Edinburgh?

Yes. You can study with AODS from anywhere through its online acting and public speaking programmes. These courses are designed for people who cannot attend in-person classes, live elsewhere in Scotland or the UK, or want to train around other commitments.

Some online courses are self-paced, while others may include specific submission deadlines or structured guidance. Check the individual programme page to understand how the course works before enrolling.

How do AODS online courses work?

Most AODS online programmes use an online learning portal where students can access course materials, including videos, written resources, exercises and assignments. Depending on the course, students can work through the content at their own pace and submit practical work for personalised feedback.

Access periods, feedback arrangements, assessments and any live sessions vary by programme. Full details are provided on the relevant course page.

Are AODS online courses suitable for complete beginners?

Yes. AODS offers online courses suitable for adults who are new to acting or public speaking, alongside specialist and more advanced programmes.

Beginners can learn fundamental skills and practise at their own pace, while experienced students can choose courses focused on particular techniques, auditions, performance or professional development. Read the course description carefully to ensure the level and requirements match your experience.

Can I access my online course at any time?

Many AODS online courses provide 24/7 access to course materials during the stated access period. This allows students to study at a time that suits their schedule, rather than attending a fixed weekly class.

Access duration and any course-specific requirements vary, so check the individual course page before enrolling.

Youth Drama and Children's Classes

Where can children attend drama classes in Peebles?

Acting Out Drama School offers children's and youth performance activities in the Peebles area, with opportunities for young people to explore drama, creativity, confidence and performance. Current classes, age groups and venues are listed on the relevant youth course pages.

Are there performing arts classes for children that include singing, dancing and drama?

AODS offers creative performance opportunities for children and young people, including activities that combine elements of acting, singing and movement. Please check the current youth programme for the relevant age groups and class availability.

Does AODS offer drama classes for toddlers and babies?

Yes. Our Baby Drama programme introduces young children to creative play, music, movement and interactive activities. It is designed for babies and toddlers, with sessions aimed at approximately six months to three years.

Does AODS run school holiday drama workshops in Scotland?

AODS offers selected holiday drama days and themed workshops for children and young people. These provide opportunities to take part in drama games, improvisation, creative activities and performance. Dates and availability vary throughout the year.

Booking, Fees and Student Support

How do I enrol on an AODS course?

Visit the relevant course page on the AODS website, review the course content, dates, fees and entry requirements, and follow the booking or application instructions.

Some courses allow direct enrolment, while professional or advanced programmes may require an application or audition first. Make sure you select the correct course and read any information about payment, access and course requirements before completing your booking.

How much do AODS courses cost?

Course fees vary depending on the programme, length, level of training and whether the course is delivered online or in person. Individual course pages provide the current prices and explain any available instalment options, additional qualifications or optional fees. We have a membership at £25 per month and professional acting courses around £4000 for 2 years. We have something for everyone’s budget.

We recommend checking the relevant page for the most up-to-date information before enrolling.

Are payment plans or bursaries available?

Some AODS courses offer instalment options, and bursaries may be available for eligible programmes. Availability, eligibility criteria and the amount of support vary by course and application.

Please check the relevant course page for current payment options and bursary information, or contact AODS if you need clarification before applying.

What happens after I book a course?

The process depends on the programme. After booking, students receive relevant confirmation and course information, which may include dates, venue details, online access instructions or next steps for an audition or application.

For private one-to-one sessions, the booking process explains how your coach will contact you to arrange your session. Please check your confirmation email for the specific arrangements relating to your course.

How can I contact Acting Out Drama School?

You can contact Acting Out Drama School through the contact details and enquiry options provided on our website. If you have a question about a particular course, include its name and your main query so that the team can direct you to the relevant information.

For the quickest answer, you may also wish to review the individual course page, where you will find details about dates, fees, content, entry requirements and booking.

Choosing the Right AODS Course

Which AODS course should I choose if I want to become an actor?

If you are new to acting, a beginners course is a good starting point. If you already have experience, you may prefer intermediate or advanced training. For those committed to pursuing professional acting, AODS offers more comprehensive programmes, including its Professional Acting Course and Acting Diploma options.

Consider your previous experience, career goals, available time and preferred learning format when choosing a course. Some programmes require an audition, so check the entry requirements before applying.

Which AODS course should I choose if I want to become a more confident public speaker?

If you want to build general confidence and improve your speaking skills, consider the AODS Public Speaking Course or an online public speaking programme. If you have a specific presentation, interview, speech or professional event coming up, private one-to-one coaching may be more suitable.

AODS training can help you practise voice, breathing, body language, presentation delivery and managing nerves. Choose the option that best matches your goals, timetable and preferred way of learning.

Why choose Acting Out Drama School for acting or public speaking training in Edinburgh and online?

AODS brings more than 20 years of award-winning experience in acting, performance and communication training. The school offers a broad range of practical courses, experienced coaches, individual feedback on selected programmes and progression routes for students with different levels of experience.

With in-person training in Edinburgh and flexible online programmes available beyond Scotland, students can choose the format that suits their needs. Whether you want to explore acting for enjoyment, pursue professional training, improve your public speaking or develop your workplace communication, AODS provides a range of options to help you take the next step.