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BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Croydon for 16 to 18 Year Olds

CostFree for 16 to 18 year olds
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

A sixth-form course for 16 to 18 year olds. Aged 19 or over? Check which courses you can do free.

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About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Croydon. Classes run at Shirley High School Performing Arts College, full-time over two years.

This Pearson Edexcel BTEC builds core knowledge and practical skills across acting, dance, musical theatre, and physical theatre. You study it alongside other Level 3 qualifications, so it carries the same weight as one A level. Units cover performance skills, devising work, and the professional context of the performing arts industry. Entry requires four or five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and a performing arts related subject, plus an audition.

You'll finish with a Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Performing Arts.

Who this course is for

This practical work related course is aimed at creative students who have an interest in developing their skills for the performing arts industry such as in acting, dance, musical or physical theatre. You may be aiming for a career as a performer, for roles behind the scenes, want to work in arts administration or perhaps in roles using the arts to educate people. Equivalent in size to one A level, you study it alongside other level 3 qualifications making it a stepping stone to higher education if you choose this path. It will give you transferable skills including self-confidence, presentation and communication, self-management and teamwork that are also useful in a range of non-arts careers.

Entry requirements

4-5 GCSE's at grade 4 (C) or above including English and a performing arts related subject. You will need to have some previous performance experience be expected to attend an audition.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop practical performance skills in acting, dance, and physical theatre.
  • You'll devise and present original performance work.
  • You'll study the professional context of the performing arts industry.
  • You'll explore roles both on stage and behind the scenes.
  • You'll build skills in musical theatre performance.
  • You'll learn how the arts are used in education and community settings.

How you will learn

The course is assessed through a mix of coursework and external assessment. You'll complete unit assignments based on practical projects and performances. Some units are assessed by Pearson through set tasks completed under supervised conditions. Classroom sessions combine taught input, rehearsal, and practical workshops.

What you will need to bring

Shirley High School Performing Arts College will confirm what you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Actor, performs in theatre, film, television, or other live productions.
  • Dancer, works in professional dance companies, theatre, or commercial productions.
  • Performing arts teacher or workshop leader, delivers arts education in schools or community settings.
  • Arts administrator, supports the running of theatres, arts organisations, or events.
  • Stage manager or production assistant, coordinates backstage operations for live performances.
  • Community arts worker, uses performance to engage and educate groups.

What you could study next

  • A higher national certificate or diploma in Performing Arts (Level 4 or 5), a natural next step into specialist training.
  • A BA in Performing Arts, Drama, or Dance (Level 6), for those aiming at a degree-level career in performance or arts education.
  • A foundation degree in Performing Arts (Level 5), combining academic study with practical experience.
  • Drama school conservatoire training, for those pursuing professional performance; most programmes require audition alongside academic qualifications.
Apply on qualifications.pearson.com →
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