Free BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Prenton

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 Prenton. Classes run full-time at Birkenhead Sixth Form College, over two years. This Pearson Edexcel level 3 btec performing arts qualification covers practical performance, theory, and industry knowledge across four units. You'll study core areas including practitioners' work, developing performance skills, and group performance, alongside a specialist unit. Entry requires five GCSEs including Maths and English Language, with at least three at grade 4 and two at grade 5. Applicants also attend a practical class as part of the application process.

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. This makes an excellent stepping stone for those interested in both Drama and Dance wishing to pursue a career in Performing Arts. 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. It can be studied alongside A Level Dram, A Level Dance or BTEC Digital Music Production or as a stand alone subject option.

Entry requirements

5 GCSE's including Maths and English Language: a minimum of three GCSE's at grade 4 and two GCSE's at Grade 4 . Additional entry requirements are that applicants will be required to attend a technical class.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop performance skills across acting, dance, musical theatre, or physical theatre.
  • You'll investigate the work of professional performing arts practitioners.
  • You'll practise group performance and collaborative creative projects.
  • You'll analyse and evaluate your own and others' performance through written work.
  • You'll research industry contexts and professional practice in the performing arts.
  • You'll build creative problem-solving and communication skills through practical tasks.

How you will learn

You'll learn through a mix of practical performance work, theory study, and written evaluation. Two of the four units are externally assessed and two are internally assessed. Every unit combines hands-on performance tasks with theory-based projects. Classes are classroom based and run full-time during the day at Birkenhead Sixth Form College.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Birkenhead Sixth Form College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Actor: perform in theatre, film, television, or live events.
  • Stage manager: coordinate productions and manage backstage operations.
  • Dance teacher or arts educator: use performance skills to teach others.
  • Community arts worker: deliver arts projects in schools or community settings.
  • Theatre technician: support productions with lighting, sound, or set.
  • Arts administrator: work in the business and management side of the arts.
  • Choreographer: create and direct dance or movement for productions.

What you could study next

This qualification is equivalent to one A Level and supports progression to higher education. You could go on to study a BA in Performing Arts, Drama, Dance, or Theatre Studies at university. A Foundation Degree in Creative Arts is another option if you want a shorter higher education route. Some learners also combine this with further BTECs to strengthen a UCAS application.

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