Free BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in London – Acland Burghley School

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in London. Classes run full-time at Acland Burghley School, five days a week during the day. This level 3 BTEC performing arts course runs over two years and covers all three disciplines: music, dance, and drama, with a strong focus on musical theatre. You'll develop performance skills, study practitioners' work, and take part in community and group productions. Entry typically requires a Level 2 performing arts distinction or a grade 6 or above in GCSE music, dance, or drama. Experience in musical theatre is recommended.

Who this course is for

Age range: 16-18

Entry requirements

Performing art level 2 distinction (if taken), 6+ in GCSE music, dance or drama (if taken). Experience in musical theatre is recommended

What you will learn

  • You'll develop technical performance skills across music, dance, and drama.
  • You'll investigate the work of performing arts practitioners and build critical analysis skills.
  • You'll create and perform group work in response to a given stimulus.
  • You'll apply specialist skills to a community performance project.
  • You'll produce research reports, process logs, and milestone records to support your practical work.
  • You'll prepare for a written exam on practitioners and contextual understanding of performance.

How you will learn

Learning is classroom and studio based, with practical performance sessions running alongside written and research tasks. Assessment includes a written exam, two individual performances, a group performance, a community performance project, a research report, and process and milestone logs. You'll be assessed on both your practical skills and your ability to reflect on and document your creative process.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Acland Burghley School will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Performer, stage actor, or musical theatre performer in professional productions
  • Dance teacher or drama teacher in schools or community settings
  • Community arts worker, running arts projects for local groups
  • Stage manager or production assistant supporting live performances
  • Drama workshop leader working with young people or community groups
  • Casting assistant or talent coordinator in theatre or TV

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) in Performing Arts, Drama, or Musical Theatre at university. A Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Diploma is recognised for UCAS points and meets entry requirements at many drama schools and universities.
  • Level 4 or Level 5 Higher National Certificate or Diploma (HNC/HND) in Performing Arts. A more vocational route into professional performance or arts administration.
  • Drama school audition preparation courses. Some conservatoires and drama schools offer specialist training beyond a Level 3 qualification.

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