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Free BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Whitehaven

CostFREE
Duration22 months
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start3 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Whitehaven. Classes run at The Whitehaven Academy, full-time during the day. This free btec performing arts course is open to members of The West Coast Sixth Form, which includes students from Workington Academy. Transport runs from Workington Academy for those who need it. The course runs over 22 months. You'll study performance skills, practitioners' work, and group performance, covering contemporary dance, jazz, and musical theatre. Entry requires a Level 2 Merit in BTEC Performing Arts, or a grade 5 in GCSE Dance, Drama, or Performing Arts. If you have no formal qualification in the subject, a grade 4 or above in GCSE English plus evidence of relevant practical experience may be considered. This level 3 btec performing arts qualification is awarded by Pearson Edexcel and carries the same weight as an A Level.

Who this course is for

Performing Arts contributes to the national economy with over 137,250 jobs currently in the UK and is very popular among young people. This is a fantastic opportunity to study this discipline. Students who have already studied Performing Arts at Key Stage 4 will find many of the ideas and concepts are expanded upon in the course. However, the study of the above courses is not an essential requirement, students without this background will be able to develop their skills without prior knowledge, but some practical experience in school or extra-curricular would be advantageous. This vocational course gives a great insight into the Performing Arts ‘working’ world, the roles and responsibilities and opportunities in the sector and is designed to be studied alongside other A-Level/BTEC options.

Entry requirements

A level 2 Merit in BTEC Performing Arts or a grade 5 in GCSE Dance/Drama/Performing Arts.

If no previous experience: a grade 4 or above in English at GCSE level and evidence of relevant experience and participation in dance/musical theatre classes/performances.

What you will learn

  • You'll investigate the work of performing arts practitioners and analyse their techniques.
  • You'll develop skills and techniques for live performance in contemporary dance, jazz, and musical theatre.
  • You'll take part in group performance workshops, building collaborative stagecraft.
  • You'll explore the roles, responsibilities, and opportunities in the performing arts sector.
  • You'll study how the performing arts industry operates in a professional context.
  • You'll complete one optional unit, such as movement in performance, to deepen a specialist area.

How you will learn

You'll learn through a mix of practical sessions and written study in the classroom. Units 1 and 2 are assessed by external exams. The remaining units are assessed through coursework and practical performance work. Grading follows an A Level scale: Pass equals E, Merit equals C, Distinction equals A, and Distinction* equals A*.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Performer. Stage, dance, or musical theatre productions.
  • Drama facilitator. Running workshops in schools or community settings.
  • Performing arts technician. Supporting productions behind the scenes.
  • Dance teacher or instructor. Teaching in studios or schools.
  • Arts administrator. Coordinating events and productions for arts organisations.
  • Community arts worker. Delivering arts projects in public or charity settings.
  • Casting assistant. Supporting audition and talent selection processes.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) in Performing Arts or Drama. A degree for those wanting to specialise further and pursue professional performance or directing.
  • BA (Hons) in Dance or Musical Theatre. Specialist degree routes at conservatoires and universities.
  • Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training. If you want to move into teaching or facilitation in the arts.
  • Higher National Diploma (HND) in Performing Arts. A two-year higher education route before or instead of a full degree.
Apply on westcoastsixthform.org →
Apply now →

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