Free BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Boston. Classes run at Sam Newsom Centre, full-time over two years. This course is free for learners who are under 19 years old on 31 August of the year they start. You'll develop performance skills across singing, dancing, and acting, alongside training in improvisation, street theatre, auditioning, and the business side of the industry. The course includes live projects, workshops, and public performances, with a strong focus on building a professional portfolio. You'll have access to a large auditorium, a dance studio, and six rehearsal rooms on the dedicated campus. Entry requires five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, or a Merit or above at Level 2 Diploma, plus a creative skills demonstration at interview.
Who this course is for
The Performing Arts course offers technical development in all areas of performance skills (singing, dancing and acting) . The course, delivered by our experienced lecturers, covers performing, rehearsing, dance performance, applying acting skills, voice, singing and the healthy performer, auditioning techniques, business and theory to give an overview of the industry and how to succeed as a performer. The emphasis of the course is on creating entrepreneurial performers who have the skills, knowledge and experience to promote themselves at auditions and within the industry. This is achieved with practical application of knowledge in realistic industry environments such as projects, workshops and performances, and by enabling learners to create and promote a portfolio of their own work. This course will help you gain the skills to progress into work or Higher Education and achieve their future goals.
Entry requirements
The entry qualifications for the Level 3 Performing Arts Extended Diploma are five GCSEs at grade 4 or above (Old GCSE grade C or above) (or equivalent) or Merit or above at Diploma Level 2. When you attend your review a demonstration of ability in creative skills such as singing, acting, or dancing will be required.
What you will learn
You'll develop performance techniques across acting, singing, and dancing.
You'll practise improvisation and street theatre in live performance contexts.
You'll apply auditioning techniques and voice work to professional standards.
You'll study the business of performing arts, including promotion and event management.
You'll build a professional portfolio to showcase your work to live audiences.
You'll learn how to present and promote yourself as an independent performer.
You'll gain experience through workshops, live projects, and public productions.
How you will learn
Learning is classroom-based and practical, delivered full-time during the day at Sam Newsom Centre. You'll take part in workshops, rehearsals, and live performances. Assessment is through coursework, practical projects, and portfolio evidence rather than written exams. In your first year you'll complete the Foundation Diploma; in your second year you'll top up to the full Extended Diploma.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Sam Newsom Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Performer (actor, singer, or dancer) in theatre, TV, or live events
Dance teacher or performing arts tutor in schools or studios
Community arts worker running creative projects and workshops
Stage manager or production assistant supporting live shows
Arts administrator working behind the scenes for venues or companies
Entertainer or presenter in commercial or events settings
What you could study next
BA (Hons) in Performing Arts or Drama at university. The Extended Diploma is widely accepted as a qualification for degree entry, and many conservatoires and drama schools also consider it alongside auditions.
Higher National Diploma (HND) in Performing Arts. A two-year higher-level option if you want more specialist training before entering the industry.
Professional conservatoire training. Specialist acting, dance, or musical theatre programmes for those focused on a specific performance discipline.
