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Free BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Burnley – Burnley College

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start2 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
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About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Burnley. Classes run full-time at Burnley College over two years. This is a Pearson Edexcel level 3 btec performing arts qualification focused on dance, covering Jazz, Contemporary, Ballet, Street, Tap, and Acro. You'll develop technical, performance, and choreographic skills across all styles, research the performing arts industry, and take part in public showcases and full-scale productions. The course is free if you're 16 to 18 years old, subject to DfE funding rules.

Who this course is for

Develop and refine your dance performance and technical skills in a variety of styles including Jazz, Contemporary, Ballet, Street, Tap and Acro. This course will encourage you to become a well- rounded dancer developing your technical, performance and choreographic skills across all dance styles. You will develop an understanding of each style and explore contrasting techniques and practitioners to find your own style as a dance artist. You will research the Performing Arts Industry to understand current trends and developments and how to promote yourself. You will perform in public performance projects inclusive of Dance showcases and full scale Musical Theatre production and Pantomime. All projects replicate the demands of the industry with a robust academic underpinning essential for further study at university-level.

Entry requirements

5 GCSEs at Grade 5 or above including English and Mathematics or a relevant Level 2 qualification. At least three years training and experience in a style of Dance is essential. You will be required to attend a practical workshop where you will have the opportunity to showcase your ability, creative potential and passion for your subject.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop technical skills across Jazz, Contemporary, Ballet, Street, Tap, and Acro dance styles.
  • You'll refine your performance and choreographic skills across contrasting techniques.
  • You'll explore the work of different practitioners to develop your own identity as a dance artist.
  • You'll research current trends and developments in the performing arts industry.
  • You'll learn how to promote yourself as a performer in a professional context.
  • You'll perform in public dance showcases and full-scale Musical Theatre productions.

How you will learn

You'll learn through practical workshops, studio classes, and performance projects in the classroom and on stage. Assessment is through practical performance, choreography projects, and written research work. You'll take part in public productions that replicate industry demands. An initial practical workshop is part of the application process, giving you the chance to demonstrate your ability and creative potential before the course begins.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Burnley College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Dancer. Perform in theatre, TV, film, or live events.
  • Dance teacher or instructor. Teach in studios, schools, or community settings.
  • Choreographer. Create and direct movement for productions.
  • Musical theatre performer. Combine dance, singing, and acting on stage.
  • Dance company member. Work with professional touring or resident companies.
  • Performing arts technician. Support productions backstage in lighting, sound, or staging.
  • Community arts worker. Deliver arts projects in schools or community venues.

What you could study next

A Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Extended Diploma is recognised for entry to higher education. You could progress to a BA (Hons) in Dance, Performing Arts, or Musical Theatre at university. Conservatoire audition programmes are another route for those aiming at professional performance training. Some graduates move into a Level 4 or Level 5 Higher National Diploma (HND) in Performing Arts as an alternative to a full degree.

Apply on burnley.ac.uk →
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