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BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Derby

Cost£2,882.00
Duration36 weeks
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
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About this course

BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Derby. Classes run at Derby College @ the Joseph Wright Centre, full-time over 36 weeks.

Units include Principles of Acting, Developing Contemporary Dance Techniques, Jazz Dance, Singing Skills for Actors and Dancers, and Performing to an Audience. You also study the business side of the industry. If you don't hold a GCSE in Maths, the course includes maths development alongside your main studies.

You'll finish with a Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Foundation Diploma in Performing Arts Practice.

Who this course is for

This highly practical course will put you on the path to an exciting and challenging career in the performing arts industry.  You will develop a range of skills and techniques that are relevant to, and reflective of, current practice within this vibrant industry.If you do not have GCSE Maths at grade A*-C (9-4), you will also develop your skills in maths.  This will support your main study programme, future progression and life skills.

Entry requirements

You will need to have at least four GCSEs at grade C (4) or above, including English Language and a performing arts-based qualification.  Alternatively you may have a BTEC Level 2 Diploma at Merit or Distinction grade, along with GCSE English Language at grade A*-C (9-4).In addition, you will need to attend a full-day audition, where your practical skills and potential will be assessed.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop acting techniques through Principles of Acting and Performance Workshop.
  • You'll build physical theatre skills through movement and ensemble work.
  • You'll practise contemporary dance and jazz dance techniques.
  • You'll develop singing skills relevant to acting and dance performance.
  • You'll perform to a live audience and reflect on your practice.
  • You'll study the business of the performing arts industry.
  • You'll develop an appreciation of dance as an art form.

How you will learn

Learning is practical and studio-based, delivered on-site at the centre. You'll take part in workshops, rehearsals, and live performances. Assessment is through practical performance work and coursework units. You'll also attend a full-day audition before the course begins, where your practical skills and potential are assessed.

What you will need to bring

Additional costs include theatre trips at discounted rates and copies of play texts. Derby College @ the Joseph Wright Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Actor, performs in theatre, film, television, or radio productions.
  • Dancer, works in professional dance companies, touring shows, or music videos.
  • Performing arts teacher or workshop leader, delivers classes in schools or community settings.
  • Stage manager, coordinates rehearsals and live performance logistics.
  • Theatre technician, supports productions with lighting, sound, or set work.
  • Choreographer's assistant, supports the creation and rehearsal of dance pieces.

What you could study next

  • A Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing Arts, a larger BTEC qualification that deepens your specialism and strengthens higher education applications.
  • A Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in Performing Arts, for those moving into higher-level vocational study.
  • A BA in Acting, Dance, or Theatre Studies at university, building on your Foundation Diploma for a full degree in the arts.
Apply on derby-college.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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