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Free BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Brighton – Varndean College – Daytime

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 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 Brighton. Classes run at Varndean College, full-time over two years.

The course focuses on dance. You'll build technical and creative skills through practical work. Units cover choreography, improvisation, repertory performance, and professional practice. You'll perform in a professional theatre space and work with visiting dance companies. You'll also gain work experience at real dance events in Brighton.

You'll need standard advanced level entry requirements and proven dance experience. You'll finish with a Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Foundation Diploma in Performing Arts Practice.

Who this course is for

The BTEC Acting Diploma is an exciting, two-year, immersive programme designed to refine your acting skills and prepare you for a dynamic career in the performing arts industry. 100% coursework-based and assessed across four units, this course offers a hands-on, practical approach to training, making it ideal for those passionate about pursuing further drama studies or entering the world of performance. Structured around a drama school training model, the BTEC Acting Diploma equips you with the discipline, focus, and imaginative thinking necessary for both scripted and devised performances. You’ll be encouraged to take risks, experiment with new methods, and adapt to different performance styles. Throughout the course, you’ll engage in a variety of practical workshops that will hone your acting techniques, develop your creativity, and challenge you to push your boundaries as an artist. As part of a collaborative performance company, you’ll work alongside like-minded peers, learning the value of teamwork and artistic synergy. Due to the qualification pathway of this BTEC course, you cannot take BTEC Performing Arts alongside BTEC Dance. You must choose one or the other.

Entry requirements

Standard Advanced Level entry requirements Plus: Grade 5 in GCSE Drama or Merit in L2 BTEC (if taken) or a background of successful experience in productions.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop technical dance skills across a range of styles.
  • You'll study and perform repertory by leading choreographers.
  • You'll learn to choreograph original work for live performance.
  • You'll practise improvisation and movement experimentation.
  • You'll build professional skills including audition preparation.
  • You'll work as part of a company to produce a full-length performance.
  • You'll gain work experience assisting at professional dance events.

How you will learn

You'll learn through practical classes, workshops, and vocational projects. Assessment is a mix of practical internal and external assessments and coursework assignments. You'll attend performances and work with visiting dance companies and professional choreographers. Teaching takes place in the classroom and in performance spaces at Varndean College.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Actor, performs in theatre, film, or television productions.
  • Dancer, performs with dance companies or in commercial productions.
  • Choreographer, creates and directs dance works for live performance.
  • Dance teacher, teaches classes in schools or private studios.
  • Community arts worker, delivers arts projects in community settings.
  • Stage manager, coordinates productions behind the scenes.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 BTEC National Extended Diploma in Performing Arts, a larger qualification for those wanting more depth before higher education.
  • Higher National Diploma (HND) in Performing Arts, a Level 5 qualification for those moving into higher education.
  • Degree in Dance or Performing Arts, for those aiming for a professional performance or teaching career.
Apply on varndean.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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