BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Performing Arts
Equivalent in size to one A-Level.

Course Leader: Zoe Downie – zoedownie@kba.uk

WHAT WILL I NEED BEFORE TAKING THIS COURSE?

Previous study of a GCSE Performing Arts subject is not required. We welcome applications from students with a passion for the performing arts, and all applications will be considered on their individual merits.

Enthusiasm, creativity, commitment and a willingness to work collaboratively are important. You should enjoy practical activities, developing new skills and performing in front of an audience.

WHAT WILL I DO?

Develop your creativity, confidence and performance skills through practical workshops, rehearsals and live performances.

Students can specialise in Drama, Dance or Musical Theatre while gaining valuable experience of the professional performing arts industry. Equivalent to one A-Level, this course fosters teamwork, communication and resilience, preparing students for university, drama school or a wide range of careers within the creative industries.

The course is designed for students who are passionate about performance and want to develop their abilities in a supportive, creative and challenging environment. You will explore different performance styles, work with others on practical projects and learn how to prepare, rehearse, refine and present work to an audience.

Throughout the course, you will develop the confidence and professionalism needed to progress within the performing arts, while building transferable skills that are valued in many other careers.

COURSE CONTENT AND SPECIALISMS

Students can develop their skills through one of three performing arts pathways.

Drama

Explore acting techniques, character development and script work while developing your performance and devising skills.

You will:

• Develop acting and characterisation techniques
• Explore different theatrical styles and genres
• Develop scripted and devised performances
• Use voice, movement and expression effectively
• Explore how performers communicate meaning to an audience
• Gain an understanding of professional theatre and performance practice

Dance

Develop your technical and expressive dance skills through performance, choreography and creative workshops.

You will:

• Explore different dance styles and techniques
• Develop physical control, coordination and expression
• Learn choreography and creative movement skills
• Create and perform original dance work
• Work independently and collaboratively
• Develop confidence and stage presence

Musical Theatre

Combine the disciplines of acting, singing and dance to prepare for the demands of musical theatre performance.

You will:

• Develop acting, singing and dance techniques
• Explore musical theatre repertoire and performance styles
• Develop stagecraft and ensemble performance skills
• Combine the three disciplines in practical performances
• Build versatility, confidence and stage presence
• Learn how to communicate character and storytelling through performance

WHAT WILL I LEARN?

Throughout the course, you will take part in practical workshops, rehearsals and performance projects. You will develop your ability to:

• Prepare, rehearse and perform confidently
• Interpret and respond to creative briefs
• Develop and communicate creative ideas
• Work effectively as part of a performance company
• Evaluate your own work and respond to feedback
• Demonstrate commitment, discipline and professionalism
• Understand the expectations of the performing arts industry

You will have opportunities to develop your individual strengths while learning how to contribute positively to group performances and creative projects.

ASSESSMENT AND FEEDBACK

The qualification combines practical performance, creative development and written or recorded evidence of your learning.

You will demonstrate your skills through workshops, rehearsals, performances and practical projects. You will also develop your ability to research performance styles, explore creative ideas, evaluate your work and reflect on your progress.

Regular feedback will help you refine your technique, strengthen your performance skills and build confidence. You will be encouraged to take responsibility for your own development and work collaboratively to achieve successful performances.

PROGRESSION – WHAT CAN I DO AT THE END OF THE COURSE?

The qualification provides a strong foundation for progression to higher education, specialist performing arts training, drama school, conservatoires, apprenticeships and employment within the creative industries.

Performance careers

• Actor
• Musical Theatre Performer
• Dancer
• Singer
• Voice Actor
• Physical Theatre Performer
• Television and Film Performer
• Cruise Ship or Theme Park Performer

Creative and production careers

• Choreographer
• Director or Assistant Director
• Theatre Producer
• Stage Manager
• Production Manager
• Casting Assistant
• Arts Administrator
• Event Coordinator

Technical and backstage careers

• Lighting Technician
• Sound Technician
• Costume Designer
• Set Designer
• Stage Technician
• Props Designer
• Theatre Technician

Education and community careers

• Drama or Dance Teacher (with further qualifications)
• Performing Arts Lecturer (with further qualifications)
• Workshop Leader
• Community Arts Practitioner
• Youth Theatre Leader

Media and digital careers

• Presenter
• Content Creator
• Radio Broadcaster
• Television Researcher
• Production Assistant

Further study opportunities

Students may progress to courses such as:

• BA (Hons) Acting
• BA (Hons) Musical Theatre
• BA (Hons) Dance
• Performing Arts degrees
• Drama school and conservatoire training
• Further specialist performance qualifications
• Teacher training routes

Specialist training destinations may include LAMDA, Mountview, Arts Educational Schools (ArtsEd), Bird College, Italia Conti and the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama.

The skills developed through this course, including confidence, communication, teamwork, creativity, leadership and presentation, are also highly valued in careers such as teaching, marketing, public relations, events management, tourism, sales and customer-facing professions.

Whether your ambition is to perform professionally, continue your training or work behind the scenes in the creative industries, Performing Arts offers an exciting opportunity to develop your talents and take your next steps.