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Free BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Durham – New College Durham

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

About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Durham. Classes run at New College Durham, full-time over two years.

The course is free if you are 16 to 18 years old. If you are 19 or over, fees may apply, though funding options are available.

This practical BTEC performing arts qualification builds your skills in acting, singing, and movement. You'll have opportunities to perform at professional venues and visit festivals including the Edinburgh Fringe. The course prepares you to progress to a degree or drama school. You'll finish with a Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Foundation Diploma in Performing Arts Practice.

Who this course is for

Course may be subject to change.

This is a practical two year programme which focuses on the development of acting, singing and movement skills.

Studying the first and second year of this course will also prepare you for progression to study a degree level course at New College Durham's University Centre or at university or drama school. Your experience is at the heart of the course; with opportunities to perform at the Gala, opportunities to visit London, Edinburgh Fringe Festival and local theatres.

Entry requirements

Please refer to College website.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop acting techniques and performance skills.
  • You'll build singing skills across a range of styles and contexts.
  • You'll train in movement and dance as part of performance practice.
  • You'll perform in productions at professional and public venues.
  • You'll experience industry events, including visits to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and London.
  • You'll develop skills in rehearsal, collaboration, and stagecraft.

How you will learn

Learning is practical and studio-based. You'll take part in workshops, rehearsals, and live performances. Assessment is through coursework, practical projects, and portfolio evidence rather than written exams. You'll build a body of work across the two years that demonstrates your skills and development.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. New College Durham will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Actor, performs in theatre, film, television, or online productions.
  • Dancer, works in stage productions, music videos, or live events.
  • Stage manager, coordinates rehearsals and live performances behind the scenes.
  • Drama facilitator, leads workshops in schools or community settings.
  • Performer, works in touring shows, cruise ships, or entertainment venues.
  • Arts administrator, supports the running of theatres and arts organisations.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) in Performing Arts or Drama, the natural next step for learners wanting a degree in the subject.
  • Higher National Diploma in Performing Arts, a Level 5 qualification for those who want to specialise further before a degree.
  • Drama school audition programmes, for learners aiming at conservatoire training in acting or musical theatre.
Apply on newcollegedurham.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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