Free BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Cambridge. Classes run at Northstowe Sixth Form, with a mix of in-centre practical sessions and online study. This level 3 BTEC performing arts course is taught by ex-professional dancers and runs full-time over two years. Most of your time is spent in technical dance classes covering Ballet, Contemporary Dance, and Jazz. You'll also study the non-practical side of dance through lectures, talks, and demonstrations. To apply, you'll need a GCSE grade 4 or equivalent in English and prior dance training, and you'll audition on the day.
Who this course is for
This course is led and taught by ex-professional dancers who understand the demands of professional dance training and working within this industry. This course is mostly practical in the form of technical dance classess in Ballet, Contemporary Dance and Jazz. It will cover aspects of non-practical dance through lectures, talks and demonstrations.
Entry requirements
To study Level 3 Dance, students require a GCSE Grade 4 or equivalent in English. A GCSE or BTEC in Dance is advantageous but not essential. Students should also show an interest in Dance and will require prior dance training. Dance qualifications in any discipline are advantageous. An audtion will be required which will consist of a Ballet and Jazz or Contemporary Dance class as well as a short pre-choreographed solo to be performed on the day in front of a panel.
What you will learn
You'll develop technical skills in Ballet, Contemporary Dance, and Jazz
You'll perform a pre-choreographed solo in front of a panel as part of your audition and assessment
You'll study the theory and context of dance through lectures and demonstrations
You'll learn from practitioners with professional industry experience
You'll build an understanding of the demands of working in the performing arts industry
How you will learn
You'll learn through practical dance classes at Northstowe Sixth Form, supported by online study elements you can complete in your own time. Teaching covers technical dance training alongside lectures, talks, and demonstrations for the non-practical units. Assessment is through a combination of practical performance work and written or portfolio-based tasks across the two-year course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Northstowe Sixth Form will confirm anything else you need before you start. You should expect to bring appropriate dance clothing and footwear for Ballet, Jazz, and Contemporary Dance classes.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Dancer. Perform in professional theatre, touring, or commercial productions.
Dance teacher. Teach in schools, studios, or community settings.
Choreographer. Create and direct movement for stage or screen.
Performing arts technician. Support productions behind the scenes.
Community arts worker. Deliver arts projects in community or youth settings.
Dance fitness instructor. Lead dance-based fitness classes for groups.
What you could study next
Level 4 or Level 5 HNC/HND in Performing Arts or Dance. A natural next step if you want to go deeper into performance or choreography before entering the industry.
BA (Hons) in Dance or Performing Arts. Many universities accept the Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Extended Certificate for degree entry. A three-year route into higher-level performance, teaching, or arts management.
PGCE or QTS route. If you want to teach dance in schools, a degree followed by teacher training is the route to qualified teacher status.
