BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing Arts

This practical course focuses on acting and provides the opportunity to develop a range of skills needed for employment in the theatre industry. Good links with local and national production companies, performance venues and theatre organisations provide valuable opportunities for learning and future employment.

The course is designed to provide practical experience in a range of production forms such as plays, script writing, stage management, technical theatre and directing. Regular workshops that develop movement skills form part of the course. The programme has well equipped specialist facilities. The course runs as a production company, working through a series of performances throughout the year. All students study rehearsal techniques, learn about the theatre business and explore approaches to classical and contemporary performance. The course concludes with a final major production that is staged at a public theatre venue.

There will be opportunities to work on real projects with clients from other parts of the college as well as institutions in the local community. The qualification is equal to 3 ‘A’ levels. Students can achieve up to 420 UCAS points which means they can choose whether to go straight into employment or into higher education first.

The course is based in a purpose built facility equipped with a theatre, dressing rooms and dance studio.

The course suits those with a strong interest in performing arts

4 GCSEs (or equivalent) at Grade C or above preferably including English Language. Students will be required to demonstrate a keen interest in the subject area. An interview is part of the application process.

All coursework is internally assessed regularly and verified annually. There is no exam. All students aged 16-19 will follow an appropriate Functional Skills programme of English or ICT and this will be linked to their coursework. Assessment for Functional Skills is by an external test.

Successful students may seek employment within the performing arts industry or progress to higher education studies or into drama or dance school.
 

All students are given a Personal Tutor who has the responsibility to support learning and monitor progress through weekly group or individual tutorials. The Personal Tutor will set achievement goals with students and feedback regularly to them on progress toward meeting these. Personal Tutors will also provide information to their parents/guardians via reports and consultation evenings.

View the Performing Arts progression chart here.

Fees for the 2013/14 academic year are currently under review. Figures given below are indicative only and subject to change. Fees will be posted here as soon as they become available.

The course is free for 16-18 year olds.

Students over 19 should contact Student Services to get advice about eligibility for remission from fees.
Our student services advisors can also help assess the level of support available to you.