Free BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Barnsley

CostFREE
Duration24 months
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Barnsley. Classes run at NOVA Arts, full-time during the day, over two years. You'll study acting, musical theatre, or dance, or follow a general pathway covering all three disciplines. This level 3 btec performing arts qualification is equivalent to three A levels, so it's recognised for university and theatre school applications. You'll build skills in performance, presentation, and communication along the way. Entry requires five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Maths, plus some previous performance experience and an audition.

Who this course is for

This practical work related course is aimed at creative students who have an interest in developing their skills for the performing arts industry. You can follow a specific pathway for either acting, musical theatre or dance or a general pathway covering all disciplines. Equivalent to three A levels, it can be a stepping stone to theatre school, university and careers in the performing arts industry. It will give you transferable skills including self-confidence, presentation and communication, self-management and teamwork that are also useful in a range of non-arts careers.

Entry requirements

5 GCSE's at grade 4 (C) or above including English and Maths. You will need to have some previous performance experience be expected to attend an audition.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop performance technique across acting, musical theatre, or dance.
  • You'll study your chosen pathway in depth, or explore all three disciplines on the general route.
  • You'll practise presentation and communication skills used across the creative industries.
  • You'll work on self-directed and collaborative performance projects.
  • You'll learn how the performing arts industry operates, from production to professional practice.
  • You'll build a portfolio of practical work to support applications to university or theatre school.

How you will learn

Learning is practical and classroom based, with studio sessions, rehearsals, and performance work at the centre. Assessment is through coursework, practical performances, and portfolio evidence rather than written exams. You'll be assessed on your skills and progress throughout the two years, with work submitted unit by unit.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. NOVA Arts will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Actor: stage, screen, and voice performance roles
  • Dancer: professional dance companies, touring productions, and events
  • Musical theatre performer: West End, regional theatre, and cruise productions
  • Drama facilitator: running workshops in schools or community settings
  • Performing arts technician: supporting productions from backstage
  • Casting assistant: supporting casting directors in film and theatre
  • Arts administrator: coordinating projects and events for arts organisations

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) in Performing Arts or Drama: a degree for those wanting to specialise further and pursue professional performance careers.
  • BA (Hons) in Dance or Musical Theatre: specialist degree routes at conservatoires and universities.
  • Higher National Diploma (HND) in Performing Arts: a two-year higher-level qualification if you want to progress without a full degree.
  • PGCE in Drama: for those who want to teach performing arts in secondary schools after completing a degree.

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