Free BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Birmingham. Classes run at North Birmingham Academy, full-time during the day. This level 3 BTEC performing arts qualification covers acting, dance, musical theatre, and physical theatre. It runs over two years and carries the same size as two A levels, so you can study it alongside other Level 3 qualifications. You'll need four or five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and a performing arts subject, plus some performance experience and an audition.
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. You could be heading for a career not just as a performer, but also for roles behind the scenes, or in arts administration or arts education. Equivalent in size to 2 A levels, you can study it alongside other level 3 qualifications making it a stepping stone to higher education if you choose this route. You'll need confidence to perform in front of an audience, be a good team worker and have the motivation to work independently.
Entry requirements
4-5 GCSE's at grade 4 (C) or above including English and a performing arts related subject or a relevant level 2 qualification. You will need to have some previous performance experience and be expected to attend an audition.
What you will learn
You'll develop performance skills across acting, dance, and musical theatre.
You'll build knowledge of the performing arts industry, including behind-the-scenes roles.
You'll explore physical theatre techniques and how to apply them in performance.
You'll study arts administration and the business side of the performing arts sector.
You'll create and present performances as part of your assessed work.
You'll develop skills transferable to higher education and arts education roles.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions, practical workshops, and performance projects at North Birmingham Academy. Assessment is a mix of internally assessed coursework and externally assessed units set by Pearson Edexcel. You'll build a portfolio of practical and written work over the two years. Some units require live performance as part of the assessment.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. North Birmingham Academy will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Actor: stage, screen, or community theatre performance
Dancer: professional performance or dance company work
Drama teacher or workshop facilitator: arts education settings
Arts administrator: supporting organisations and venues behind the scenes
Stage manager: coordinating productions and technical teams
Community arts worker: running projects in schools or community spaces
Musical theatre performer: combining singing, acting, and dance professionally
What you could study next
BA (Hons) Performing Arts or Drama: a degree that builds directly on this BTEC, recognised by universities across the UK.
BA (Hons) Dance or Musical Theatre: specialist degree routes for those focusing on a single discipline.
Higher National Diploma (HND) in Performing Arts: a two-year higher education option if you want to stay in vocational study before committing to a full degree.
PGCE or QTS route: for those who want to move into teaching performing arts in schools after completing a degree.
