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

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Cirencester. Classes run full-time at Cirencester College, five days a week during the day, over two years. This level 3 BTEC performing arts qualification covers all three disciplines: acting, singing, and dance. You'll train to a professional standard through skills workshops, rehearsals, and live performances each term, with written work linked to your practical development. The course prepares you for drama school, dance school, university, and professional auditions. You'll need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and Maths.

Who this course is for

Find out more on our website: cirencester.ac.uk

Entry requirements

5+ GCSEs at Grade 4 and above, from the�core subjects, including English Language and Maths.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop acting techniques, including screen acting and interpreting classical text for performance.
  • You'll train in singing techniques for performers and musical theatre.
  • You'll study jazz dance and physical theatre.
  • You'll investigate practitioners' work and apply that research to your own performances.
  • You'll rehearse and perform in group and individual performance commissions.
  • You'll explore performing arts in the community and its role beyond the stage.
  • You'll evaluate your own skills and track your development as a performer across all disciplines.
  • You'll learn about employment opportunities in the performing arts industry.

How you will learn

You'll learn through practical skills workshops, rehearsals, and live performances every term. Each unit includes a mix of coursework, logbooks, practical performances, and rehearsal contribution. Written work is linked directly to your practical development, so you reflect on and evaluate your progress as you go. Assessment is ongoing across both years rather than through end-of-course exams.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Actor. Stage, screen, or theatre productions.
  • Singer or vocalist. Live performance, touring, or session work.
  • Dancer. Commercial, theatre, or contemporary dance companies.
  • Musical theatre performer. West End, touring, or regional productions.
  • Drama facilitator. Community arts or education settings.
  • Performing arts technician. Supporting productions behind the scenes.
  • Casting or production assistant. Entry-level roles in theatre or film.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) in Performing Arts or Drama. A full degree at university, building on the skills and knowledge from your BTEC.
  • Drama school training (audition-based). Specialist conservatoire programmes for acting, musical theatre, or dance.
  • Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in Performing Arts. A shorter higher-education route if you want to progress without a full three-year degree.
  • Teacher training (PGCE or QTS route). For those who want to teach performing arts in schools.

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