SpeechSchool.TV: Diction course, accent reduction, voice training & speech therapy

SpeechSchool.TV programs use a combination of modelling, elocution techniques, exercises and ongoing immersion to impart a new accent to learners over time. This involves showing you how each sound is pronounced (accent training) and then providing ongoing exercises and training for you to practice that accent while learning the dialect that goes with it. Essentially it systemizes the work of 30 years voice coaching, elocution and accent neutralization into a program that is economical enough to sustain lasting and authentic change.

How long will it take until I see improvement?
You should notice initial changes in your accent and the way you speak within the first few months of putting into practice the techniques. Within 6 months the accent and speech skills begin to become ingrained and natural. Continuation over several years will maintain and continue to develop the accent.

Can SpeechSchool.TV effectively replace traditional elocution, diction classes, voice coaching, speech and public speaking training?
Yes, when combined with regular practice of the exercises, research has shown that the SpeechSchool.TV method provides results at least as good as that achieved through one-to-one sessions with an experienced voice coach. However, if used for speech therapy purposes we recommend using the programs in consultation with a qualified speech therapist.

What age levels is SpeechSchool.TV suitable for?
These programs can work very well to develop confidence and presentation skills in younger people. The level for accent programs is generally suitable for sole learners 11+ (6+ when assisted by a parent or teacher) and for voice programs 13+ (8+ when assisted by a parent or teacher).

Is my English good enough for SpeechSchool.TV programs?
Our programs have been developed for ESL and native speakers. For accent programs it is recommended you already speak English to an INTERMEDIATE level (IELTS 4.5 or higher). For voice programs a more advanced level is recommended (IELTS 5.5 or higher). All programs will work to improve the level of your spoken English, whether you speak it as a first or second language.

When is my next weekly TV lesson available?
Upon subscribing you will be given access to your first lesson immediately. Weekly lessons are then delivered by 5am every Monday (US EST time). You will receive a notification email as soon as your next lesson is ready with a link and access code to the lesson. Your access code provides single user access only.

What should I do if I have not received my weekly email with an access code for my next lesson?
Firstly, please check your Junk Mail or SPAM box to check that SpeechSchool.TV emails are not being sent there. Set your email system to accept emails from courses @ speechschool.tv. Secondly, if you are still unable to find the access email please contact us so we can send it to you manually.

Once subscribed to a program, can I change to another program?
Yes, you can switch programs any time after logging in, simply by completing the form under 'course support' in your customer account. Please note when you change a program you must start from the beginning. Many clients like to achieve their desired accent using one of our accent programs and then go on to develop Advanced Voice skills using the MASTER COMMUNICATOR PROGRAM.

May I enrol in two or more programs at one time?
Yes, simply subscribe to additional programs as required. You will receive your access emails to all programs by 5am every Monday (US EST time).

How can I cancel my subscription?
You may cancel your subscription at any time by simply contacting us and requesting this. From notice of cancellation no further monthly subscription dues will be billed. If you resume your subscription within 3 months you may continue from your last lesson.

Do you offer programs in other accents such as Australian, Scottish etc?
No, from many years of voice coaching we have found the two most advantageous accents are Received Pronunciation and General American. Speakers using these accents have also been rated as the most TRUSTED. Because language is of a fluid nature, the accent you develop, will over time also be influenced by the other speakers you come into contact with.

Where are these accents predominantly used?
Forms of Received Pronunciation are spoken in the UK, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. General American is spoken throughout North America. Both accents are ideal for conducting international business or presenting in International English to a professional broadcast standard.

What is the difference between accent and dialect?
Accent refers to the way in which language is pronounced. SpeechSchool.TV offers programs in a choice of two accents which provide the most neutral (non-regional) forms of pronunciation: RECEIVED PRONUNCIATION (RP) and GENERAL AMERICAN.
Dialect refers to the grammar and vocabulary used. Our RP program is in the 'Standard English' dialect, which is the dialect of educated people throughout the British Isles and is closely resembled in New Zealand and Australia. Our General American program is the 'American English' dialect which is the dialect of educated people throughout North America.

How can I maintain my speech results?
SpeechSchool.TV programs are designed to sustain ongoing improvement and maintenance. By continuing to participate you will continue to refine and develop your speech, which is why many learners continue with our programs over a long period - because they see results.

When and how often should I undertake SpeechSchool assessments?
We recommend for best results to do an assessment BEFORE beginning a program and then once every two months while enrolled in a program.

I experience speech impairment in the form of a stutter, lisp, nasality, monotone etc - which program is the best for me?
The accent programs in British or American English address diction and flow and will show you step by step how to speak clearly, thereby reducing language impairment with practice. The Master Communicator Program can then be used for specific voice coaching to train your speech to overcome ingrained habits.

Is it possible to add a SpeechSchool.TV subscription to my student loan?
In most cases, yes. Simply use the 'Course Related Costs' allowance in your loan to gain reimbursement for your subscription.

Can I pay for my SpeechSchool.TV subscription without using a credit card?
We are able to accept cheque payments for annual subscriptions in the currencies listed on this site. Please send your cheque for 12 months to SpeechSchool.TV, PO Box 100305, NSMC, Auckland 0745, New Zealand. Your subscription will be activated once we have received the cheque and you will be notified by email.

Will my employer pay for my SpeechSchool.TV subscription?
Please check with your employer. In some instances individuals are reimbursed from HR or Professional Development budgets. We also offer special arrangements for companies wishing to enrol 6 or more staff. Click for more info on our services to organizations.

Do you offer account terms for businesses?
Account terms are available for organizations wanting to enrol 10 or more members into SpeechSchool.TV courses. Please contact us at sales @ speechschool.tv to apply for an account.

My subscription has lapsed but now I wish to continue with my program. May I start from my last lesson?
Yes, providing you renew your subscription within 3 months. Simply contact us to reactivate your subscription.

How can I obtain a SpeechSchool.TV Certificate?
To obtain a 'Certificate of Broadcast Standard English', you must have undertaken a subscription of 3 or more months and achieve a minimum score of 85% in a graded Speech Assessment. Your printed certificate will be signed by our Course Director and mailed to your home.