Free BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Coventry. Classes run at Blue Coat Church of England School and Music College, full-time during the day. This level 3 btec performing arts course runs over two years and carries the same UCAS points as a single A Level. You'll specialise in areas including acting, dance, musical theatre, physical theatre, or variety performance. The course takes a practical approach from the start. To apply, you'll need a Grade 6 in GCSE Drama, GCSE Dance, or GCSE English, or an equivalent achievement in a BTEC Level 2 Performing Arts qualification.
Who this course is for
The BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Performing Arts is the equivalent of one A Level and
attracts the same amount of UCAS points as a single A Level.
The course offers a great deal of choice to specialise in areas of the performing arts that our students
express interest in and passion for. Those areas are: acting, dance, musical theatre, physical theatre and
variety performance.
The course engages students in practical approaches to the performing arts from the outset, using
explorative techniques to build performance skills, the context of the chosen art form and to learn the
practical approaches of established directors, performers and companies.
The course is split into four units. One of which challenges students to investigate and analyse the work
and achievements of established performing arts practitioners from across the disciplines. This unit is
assessed through written coursework conducted in controlled conditions.
The other three units engage students in practical, skills building sessions working towards performance.
Students will participate in three performances across the two years, document the process and evaluate
the outcomes through written coursework and audio/visual presentations, such as vlogs.
Students will have the opportunity to participate in workshops led by professional performers, directors
and companies as part of the course.
Entry requirements
Grade 6 in either GCSE Drama, GCSE Dance or GCSE English. Or, equivalent achievement in BTEC Level 2
Performing Arts.
What you will learn
You'll develop practical performance skills across your chosen specialism, such as acting, dance, or musical theatre.
You'll explore physical theatre and variety performance techniques.
You'll work on devising and presenting performances for different audiences.
You'll study the creative and technical processes behind performing arts productions.
You'll build skills in rehearsal, collaboration, and performance under direction.
You'll develop your ability to reflect on and evaluate your own work.
How you will learn
Learning is practical and classroom based, with performance workshops, rehearsals, and studio sessions at the centre. Assessment is through a combination of internally assessed units and externally set assignments. You'll be assessed on your practical performance work, written tasks, and your ability to plan and evaluate creative projects. Full-time attendance is required across the two-year course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Blue Coat Church of England School and Music College 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 work in theatre, events, or dance companies
Musical theatre performer: combining singing, acting, and dance professionally
Drama workshop leader: delivering creative sessions in schools or community settings
Theatre production assistant: supporting backstage and production teams
Performing arts teaching assistant: supporting arts education in schools
Events and entertainment performer: variety and live performance work
What you could study next
BA (Hons) in Performing Arts or Drama: this btec performing arts qualification earns UCAS points equivalent to one A Level, supporting university applications in the arts.
HND in Performing Arts (Pearson): a higher-level vocational route if you want to develop professional skills further before entering the industry.
PGCE or teacher training: for those who want to teach drama or performing arts in schools after completing a degree.