Free BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Bournemouth. Classes run full-time at The Bourne Academy over two years. This level 3 BTEC performing arts qualification lets you follow a specialist pathway in acting, musical theatre, or dance, or take a broader route covering all three disciplines. It carries the same weight as three A levels, making it a recognised route into university, theatre school, or careers in the performing arts industry. Entry requires five or more GCSE grades 9 to 4, including English and Maths, or a Merit in a related Level 2 course.
Who this course is for
This practical work related course is aimed at creative students who have an interest om 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 3 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 in a range of non-arts careers.
Entry requirements
Five or more 9-4 grades at GCSE including English and Maths. A grade 6/Merit in a related L2 course or relevant experience within the art form.
What you will learn
You'll develop practical performance skills in acting, musical theatre, or dance.
You'll study the techniques and conventions of your chosen discipline in depth.
You'll build skills in self-presentation and communication that transfer across industries.
You'll learn how to plan, rehearse, and perform to a professional standard.
You'll explore how the performing arts industry works, including production and creative processes.
You'll develop self-management and the ability to respond to direction and feedback.
How you will learn
Learning is practical and classroom based, with performance work at the centre of the course. Assessment combines coursework, portfolio evidence, and externally assessed units set by Pearson Edexcel. You'll be assessed on performances, projects, and written work throughout the two years. Some units have fixed external assessment windows set nationally.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. The Bourne Academy will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Actor: stage, screen, or community theatre performance roles
Dancer: performance, touring, or commercial dance work
Musical theatre performer: combining singing, acting, and dance professionally
Drama facilitator: leading workshops in schools or community settings
Stage manager: coordinating productions behind the scenes
Performing arts teacher or teaching assistant: supporting students in schools
Arts administrator: working in venues, companies, or arts organisations
What you could study next
BA (Hons) in Performing Arts, Drama, or Dance: a three-year university degree for those wanting to develop their practice further. This qualification is equivalent to three A levels and meets typical entry requirements.
Conservatoire or theatre school training: specialist vocational training at institutions such as drama schools, for those focused on professional performance.
Level 4 or 5 Higher National Certificate or Diploma in Performing Arts: a shorter higher education route if a full degree is not the right fit.
