In an age where the word 'interactivity' seems to have found its home within the technological world of computer games and android phones, self-exploration through drama provides students with an outlet to communicate and express themselves clearly and assertively with others.

This was one of the main topics addressed by the Helen O'Grady Academy, at an international conference held in Hyderabad, India, in January.

Communication is at the heart of the academy's classes. It allows students to understand and share with others. It also encourages students to discuss, argue and, by its very nature, experience situations in a way which no other subject can do.

Alan Montanaro, Principal for the Helen O'Grady Academy Malta branch, gave an energetic presentation on bringing characterisation and animation into the dynamic classes. "We nurture  and develop children's inherent imagination before technology and adulthood wipes it away," Mr Montanaro stressed.

The Academy's award-winning curriculum serves to reinforce so many of the other subjects taught at academic level. "The link between the Dramatic Arts and subjects such as English, History, Social Studies, and related areas is obvious. The study of literature would be impossible without drama", he said.

'Syncopation', as the Helen O'Grady Academy conference in India was titled, brought principals and teachers from the international franchise together to exchange views and ideas while workshopping the curriculum to ensure that students get the best out of the programme.

The similarities in the education systems of India and Malta are substantial. "Our students are bilingual and most of our schools are academic and result oriented. The positive approach of the Helen O'Grady Academy is a breath of fresh air that allows students to expand mentally and holistically. We are teaching life-skills," Mr Montanaro concluded.

"We were indeed fortunate to have in our midst the very talented Alan Montanaro," said Arpita Mittal, CEO for the Academy for India. "He shared his experiences and reinforced the brilliant techniques of our programme with our enthusiastic Indian teachers. This spirit of sharing and learning from one another has made Helen O' Grady Academy a truly international organisation with branches running successfully in 31 countries," she said.