Free BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in St. Neots – Longsands Academy

CostFREE
Duration3 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 St. Neots. Classes run at Longsands Academy, full-time over three years. This level 3 BTEC performing arts qualification covers acting, dance, musical theatre, and physical theatre, giving you broad training across the performing arts. You'll study five days a week with tutor-led sessions throughout. Entry involves an audition, so the centre is looking for passion and potential rather than a set list of prior training.

Who this course is for

This course is aimed at creative students with an interest in developing skills for the performing arts industry such as in acting, dance, musical or physical theatre.

At Stageworks, we are proud to offer full-time, professional training for students aged 16-21 who are passionate about performing. We offer four full time courses - Musical Theatre, Acting, Professional Performance and Singing. All students train five days a week with 18 to 25 Tutor taught hours per week being taught by leading industry experts. Students receive a personalised training programme and train in small classes (approx. 10-15 students). Each year group is a maximum of 40 students which allows for key one-to-one contact time and continued professional and pastoral support throughout the course.

Our students have the opportunity to take part in full productions with professional set and costumes, which gives them the necessary experience on a professional stage. Our purpose-built studios are easily accessible from Cambridge, Peterborough, Bedford, Huntingdon, Biggleswade, Stevenage and Stamford and we can also provide accommodation for students who are moving away from home.

Developing their acting, dancing, singing techniques and confidence to a level where they are ready to audition for higher education pathways, or for some straight out into the workplace. It is essential during this stage of training that every student is nurtured to advance new skills and extend their strengths. Students are given individual Audition preparation time with Course leaders as well as full support through the UCAS process.

Entry requirements

Download, complete and return our application form from our website. Be open about your previous training and achievements. Do not worry if you are not trained in all areas, we will be looking for your trainability, focus and passion. Come along to the audition. Stageworks is a friendly, encouraging environment looking for the positives in you, and the potential you have to develop as a performer.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop performance skills across acting, dance, and musical theatre.
  • You'll train in physical theatre techniques.
  • You'll build vocal and singing skills as part of your performance practice.
  • You'll learn how to prepare and present work to a professional standard.
  • You'll study the performing arts industry and how it operates.
  • You'll develop rehearsal discipline and collaborative working skills.

How you will learn

You'll learn through practical studio sessions, rehearsals, and tutor-led classes five days a week. Assessment on the Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Extended Diploma is coursework-based, using assignments, projects, and practical performance work rather than written exams. You'll build a portfolio of evidence across units covering performance, production, and industry knowledge. Assessment is ongoing throughout the three years.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Longsands Academy will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Actor: stage, screen, or touring theatre productions.
  • Dancer: performance companies, shows, or commercial work.
  • Musical theatre performer: West End, regional theatre, or cruise ships.
  • Drama teacher or workshop leader: schools and community settings.
  • Theatre technician or stage manager: production and events roles.
  • Choreographer: dance companies, schools, or commercial productions.
  • Arts administrator: working behind the scenes in venues or companies.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) in Performing Arts or Drama: a degree for those wanting to deepen their craft or move into directing, writing, or teaching.
  • BA (Hons) in Dance or Musical Theatre: specialist degree routes at conservatoires and universities.
  • PGCE in Drama or Performing Arts: if you want to teach in secondary schools.
  • Level 4 or 5 Higher National Certificate or Diploma in Performing Arts: a shorter higher-education route into the industry.