The BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma and Extended Diploma in Performing Arts Practice is a practical, career-focused qualification designed for students who want to develop skills in peformance and pursue careers in the performing arts industry.
It combines hand-on performance training, creative development, and industry preparation.
4 GCSEs at grade 9-4/5, including English and/or Maths, or a Merit in a relevant Level 2 course. A strong record of attendance and punctuality is also required.
Throughout the course, you will explore performance through practical workshops, rehearsals and live productions. You will develop technical skills in your chosen discipline - such as acting, dance, musical theatre or physical theatre - while strengthening your confidence, creativity and stage presence.
DEVELOPING SKILLS AND TECHNIQUES
Build strong foundations in movement, voice, characterisation and performance technique. Through regular classes and rehearsal, you will refine your physical and vocal control, learn repertoire and develop professional rehearsal discipline.
PERFORMING ARTS IN CONTEXT
Gain an understanding of influential practitioners, performance styles and historical movements. You will explore how theatre and performance reflect society and culture, helping you make informed and creative artisitic choices.
CREATING PERFORMANCE MATERIAL
Work collaboratively to devise original performance pieces. You will repsond to creative briefs, explore themes and experiment with staging, choreograpy and interpretation, developing teamwork and problem-solving skills.
PRODUCTION AND PERFORMANCE PROJECTS
Plan, rehearse and deliver live performances to audiences. You will experience the full creative process - from initial ideas through to the final production - mirroring professional industry practice.
PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE
Prepare for progression with audition techniques, portfolio development, CV writing and an understanding of employment opportunities within the creative industries.
Teaching of the main programme will commence over 3 days per week. A significant part of the course is delivered through workshops and practical classes. Students receive expert tuition in:
Acting, dance, musical theatre and physical theatre.
Vocal and movement techniques.
Repertoire, improvisation and choreography.
These sessions allow learners to develop skills in a structured environment with immediate feedback and support from tutors, mirroring professional rehearsal and training practices.
The course integrates professional practice and insight including:
Weekly Guest workshops from industry practitioners.
Master classes in specific disciplines.
Guidance on auditions, CV's and portfolios.
This ensures learners develop transferable skills, professional standards and a realistic understanding of the creative sector
Students are assessed on live performances. Tutors evaluate technical skill, interpretation, creativity, rehearsal discipline and overall professionalism. Learners respond to industry-style briefs, developing and presenting original performance material. Assessment considers planning, research, development process, collaboration and outcome.
The assessment structure is designed to:
Reflect professional industry practice.
Encourage creativity and independence.
Develop reflective and evaluate skills.
Build confidence through practical demonstration.
This balanced approach ensures students graduate with both practical performance ability and the academic skills required for higher education or employment.
Successful completion of the course can lead to:
University degrees in Performing Arts, Drama, Dance or Musical Theatre.
Specialist drama schools and conservatoires.
Apprenticeships within the creative sector.
Employment in theatre, live events, community arts or entertainment industries.
The course provides exciting opportunities to engage with local schools and the wider community, placing enrichment and student experience at the heart of learning. With annual trips across the UK and overseas, students can develop independence, confidence, and practical skills that will support their future careers in the performing arts. Additional specialist courses are also available to enhance students’ professional profiles, including Level 3 Gym Instructor, Sports Massage, and Personal Training qualifications, helping to build a strong and versatile CV.
