Free BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Hillingdon – De Salis Studio College

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start2 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Hillingdon. Classes run full-time at De Salis Studio College. This two-year course covers the skills and knowledge needed to work or progress in the performing arts. You'll study through a mix of practical performance work and written units, building expertise across acting, production, and the creative industries. The level 3 BTEC performing arts qualification is awarded by Pearson Edexcel, one of the most widely used awarding bodies for vocational study. Entry requires a minimum of five GCSEs at grades 9 to 4, including grade 4 in both English and Maths.

Who this course is for

Pupils age 16 that have completed their GCSEs. Please see our full post 16 course prospectus from our website: https://www.therosedalehewensacademytrust.co.uk/

Entry requirements

A minimum of 5 GCSES grades 9-4, including a Grade 4 in GCSE English and a Grade 4 in GCSE Mathematics.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop performance skills across acting, dance, or musical theatre
  • You'll study the history and context of performing arts
  • You'll plan, rehearse, and perform in productions
  • You'll analyse and evaluate your own and others' performances
  • You'll explore how the performing arts industry works, including roles behind the scenes
  • You'll develop skills in devising and creating original work
  • You'll build professional practice skills relevant to auditions and industry settings

How you will learn

You'll learn through a combination of practical workshops, studio sessions, and classroom-based study. Assessment is largely through coursework, including performance portfolios, written assignments, and practical projects. Some units may include external assessment set by Pearson Edexcel. You'll work individually and as part of an ensemble, with regular feedback from tutors to support your development throughout the two years.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. De Salis Studio College 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 choreographer, performing or creating movement work
  • Casting assistant, supporting audition and talent processes
  • Arts administrator, working in venues or arts organisations
  • Theatre technician, managing lighting, sound, or set
  • Community arts worker, delivering creative projects for local groups

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) in Performing Arts or Drama, at university, building on your BTEC National Diploma for a full degree in the subject.
  • HND in Performing Arts (Level 5), a shorter higher education route if you want to stay in vocational study.
  • Degree-level conservatoire training, for those focused on professional performance in acting, dance, or musical theatre.
  • Level 3 or Level 4 qualifications in arts management or production, if you want to move into the technical or business side of the industry.

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