Free BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Letchworth Garden City. Classes run full-time at Fearnhill School. This Pearson Edexcel qualification gives you a broad introduction to performing arts alongside other subjects, building core knowledge and skills across the sector. You'll study how to adapt performance for different audiences and environments. The course runs over 23 months. Entry typically requires five GCSEs at grades 9 to 1, or a Level 2 BTEC. You'll finish with the Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Performing Arts.
Who this course is for
The content of this qualification has been developed in consultation with academics to ensure
that it supports progression to higher education. In addition, employers and professional
bodies have been involved and consulted in order to confirm that the content is also
appropriate and consistent with current practice for students choosing to enter employment.
Students will understand different audiences in different environments and will learn to adapt
a performance to engage the target audience.
Students select one optional unit to support choices in progression to performing arts and
other courses in HE, and also cover acting, dance and musical theatre topics.
Examples of the optional units include: classical ballet technique, street dance technique,
acting styles, developing the voice for performance, and variety performance.
The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Performing Arts is intended as an
Applied General qualification. It is designed for post-16 learners with an interest in performing arts
who want to continue their education through applied learning, and who aim to progress to higher
education.
The qualification is equivalent in size to one A Level and is designed to occupy one-third of a typical
study programme, which could include other vocational or academic qualifications, such as further
BTEC Nationals or A Levels.
This qualification gives a broad introduction to the performing arts sector with an emphasis on core
knowledge and fundamental skills which are transferable across other sectors (including
communication, presentation, physical and creative skills).
Entry requirements
5 GCSE 9-1
Level 2 BTEC
What you will learn
You'll develop performance skills across acting, dance, or musical theatre contexts.
You'll study how different audiences respond to performance in different environments.
You'll learn to adapt and shape a performance to engage a target audience.
You'll build core knowledge of the performing arts sector and current industry practice.
You'll explore how performance work is created, rehearsed, and presented.
You'll develop skills transferable to higher education and employment in the arts.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions, practical performance work, and guided study. The Pearson BTEC format combines internally assessed units with externally assessed components. Internal units are assessed through assignments and portfolio evidence. External assessments are set and marked by Pearson Edexcel. Guided learning hours total 360, with a total qualification time of 480 hours across the 23-month course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Fearnhill School will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Performer (theatre, dance, or musical theatre productions)
Drama workshop facilitator (community or youth settings)
Stage manager or production assistant (live events and theatre)
Arts administrator (supporting arts organisations and venues)
Drama teacher or teaching assistant (with further training)
Community arts worker (local authority or charity projects)
What you could study next
BA (Hons) in Performing Arts or Drama: a natural next step if you want to study at degree level. The Extended Certificate is designed to support university applications alongside other qualifications.
Level 3 Diploma or Extended Diploma in Performing Arts: a larger BTEC qualification if you want a more intensive performing arts programme before higher education.
PGCE or teacher training: for those who complete a degree and want to teach drama or performing arts in schools.
