Free BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Bristol. Classes run at St Brendan's Sixth Form College, full-time during the day. This is a two-year Pearson Edexcel qualification with a Musical Theatre pathway that covers acting, dance, and singing alongside broader industry knowledge. You'll need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language, and entry is by audition. You don't need to have studied performing arts at GCSE to apply. The course suits practically minded learners who want both skill development and technical understanding of the industry.
Who this course is for
This course is for practically minded students who have a keen interest in one or more areas of the Performing Arts industry and wish to receive outstanding tuition both in skill development as well as technical understanding. The Triple Threat/Musical Theatre pathway will allow you to develop skills and knowledge in acting dance and singing as well as the broader aspects of the industry such as Acting for Film and TV The Business of Performing Arts and Theatre for Children. Students wishing to study along the Triple Threat/Musical Theatre pathway have 2 types of course to select from: The Extended Certificate in Performing Arts (equivalent to one A-Level) The National Diploma in Performing Arts (equivalent to two A-Levels) These courses can be combined with any of the other 68 courses on offer at the college including other performance courses such as A-level Dance or Music Performing. All students will become a member of the St Brendans Performing Arts Academy which offers a range of opportunities with external industry professionals and cross-curricular links with the Drama Dance and Music departments. We have strong links with local theatre companies performing arts professionals and offer workshops with them as part of the academy. The Academy ethos of Education First meets our desire and passion to support students in developing your performance skills and to open your horizons to this incredible 100 billion industry that caters for over 1.7million jobs in the UK. For more information on the Performing Arts Academy please see one of our experienced teachers or visit the college website. You will have access to outstanding purpose made facilities at the college including: Fully equipped theatre performance space including substantial sound and lighting systems Dedicated dance space with spring floor and full length mirrors Suite of music practice rooms kitted out with industry standard pianos and sound equipment. You will also make use of our p
Entry requirements
A minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above (including English Language). Level 2 vocational qualifications (e.g. BTEC/OCR) must be a merit grade or above and only one will count as one GCSE equivalent. A grade 3 in English Language is accepted for this course providing you have a grade 4 or above in English Literature. You will also need to enrol on English Language GCSE alongside your A-levels. Entry via successful audition You do NOT have to have studied this subject at GCSE to apply
What you will learn
You'll develop acting skills, including techniques for stage and screen.
You'll train in dance and singing as part of the Musical Theatre pathway.
You'll study acting for film and TV.
You'll explore the business side of the performing arts industry.
You'll learn about theatre for children and community performance contexts.
You'll build technical understanding of how the performing arts industry operates.
How you will learn
The Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Extended Certificate is assessed through a combination of internally assessed units and externally set tasks. Internal units are assessed through assignments, projects, and practical performances. External assessments are set and marked by Pearson Edexcel. Classes are classroom and studio based, with practical workshops forming a central part of your learning alongside written and research tasks.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. St Brendan's Sixth Form College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Actor: stage, screen, and commercial performance work.
Dancer: performance roles in theatre, TV, and events.
Musical theatre performer: touring and repertory theatre productions.
Drama facilitator: leading workshops in schools or community settings.
Performing arts technician: supporting productions behind the scenes.
Casting assistant: supporting casting directors in film and theatre.
Arts administrator: coordinating productions, venues, or arts organisations.
What you could study next
BA (Hons) in Performing Arts or Drama: a degree for those wanting to specialise further in performance or directing.
BA (Hons) in Musical Theatre: a conservatoire or university degree focused on professional performance training.
Higher National Diploma (HND) in Performing Arts: a two-year higher-level qualification if you want a shorter route into the industry.
PGCE in Drama: for those who want to teach performing arts in secondary schools after completing a degree.
