Free BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Chesham. Classes run at Chiltern Hills Academy, full-time over two years. You'll explore the performing arts industry from a vocational angle, developing performance skills across group and solo work. The course covers auditioning, casting, devising, rehearsing, and performing, alongside the documentation process that underpins professional practice. Some units are externally assessed and some internally assessed. Entry requires a GCSE Drama grade 5 or above, and preferably a strong grade in English. All applicants attend an assessment class before starting.
Who this course is for
Students will be given the opportunity to explore the world of the performing arts industry from a vocational perspective. By the end of the course, students will have developed a range of performance skills as well as an understanding of how the casting, auditioning, devising, rehearsing and performing process work. There is a combination of group and solo performance work and an emphasis on the documentation process. There is also a combination of externally and internally assessed units which involve essay and journal writing, as well as rehearsal and performance.
Entry requirements
Students wishing to study this subject should have achieved a grade 5/6 or above in GCSE Drama and preferably English. All students will be expected to attend an assessment technique class to assess their suitability for the course.
What you will learn
You'll develop a range of performance skills across solo and group work.
You'll practise auditioning and casting processes used in the industry.
You'll devise and rehearse original performance work.
You'll perform to an audience as part of your assessed work.
You'll document your creative process throughout the course.
You'll build an understanding of how the performing arts industry operates.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions combining practical performance work with written documentation. Assessment is a mix of externally set and internally assessed units. Externally assessed units are marked by Pearson Edexcel. Internally assessed units are marked at the centre using set briefs. You'll build a portfolio of evidence alongside your performance work throughout the two years.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Chiltern Hills Academy will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Actor or performer, working in theatre, TV, or film
Stage manager, coordinating productions behind the scenes
Drama facilitator, running workshops in schools or community settings
Dancer or movement artist, performing in live productions
Casting assistant, supporting audition and selection processes
Theatre technician, working on lighting, sound, or set
Arts administrator, supporting the running of a venue or company
What you could study next
Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Performing Arts, a Level 4 qualification for deeper vocational training in the sector.
BA (Hons) in Performing Arts or Drama, a degree route at university for those wanting to specialise further.
PGCE in Drama, for those who want to teach the subject in secondary schools after completing a degree.
