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Free BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Bolton – Thornleigh Sixth Form College Bolton

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start2 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
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About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Bolton. Classes run at Thornleigh Sixth Form College Bolton, full-time during the day. This two-year course is a Pearson Edexcel level 3 btec performing arts qualification, equivalent in size to one A Level. You'll study it alongside other Level 3 qualifications, making it a strong route into higher education. The course covers acting, dance, musical theatre, and physical theatre, with practical work at its core. You'll need four or five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and a performing arts related subject, plus an audition.

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. Equivalent in size to one A level, you study it alongside other level 3 qualifications making it a stepping stone to higher education if you choose this path. 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.

Entry requirements

4-5 GCSE's at grade 4 or above including English and a performing arts related subject. You will need to have some previous performance experience be expected to attend an audition.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop performance skills across acting, dance, musical theatre, and physical theatre.
  • You'll build practical experience through rehearsal, production, and live performance work.
  • You'll explore the creative and technical processes behind performing arts productions.
  • You'll study roles behind the scenes, including production, direction, and arts administration.
  • You'll learn how the performing arts industry works and how to navigate it professionally.
  • You'll develop skills in using the arts as a tool for education and community engagement.

How you will learn

This is a classroom-based, practical course. Learning is hands-on, with performance work, rehearsals, and project-based assignments central to how you progress. Assessment is through coursework and practical performance tasks rather than traditional exams. You'll build a portfolio of work across the two years. The course is delivered full-time during the day.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Actor or performer: stage, screen, and live performance work
  • Dance artist: performance, teaching, or community dance roles
  • Theatre technician: lighting, sound, and stage management
  • Arts administrator: coordinating projects and events for arts organisations
  • Drama facilitator: using performing arts to educate or support communities
  • Casting assistant: supporting casting directors in film, TV, or theatre
  • Community arts worker: delivering arts programmes in schools or charities
  • Performer in musical theatre: touring productions and repertory theatre

What you could study next

A BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate sits alongside A Levels and can support a UCAS application. You could progress to a BA (Hons) in Performing Arts, Drama, Dance, or Theatre Studies at university. Some learners go on to specialist conservatoire training. Others take a Foundation Degree in Creative Arts or Arts Management as a more vocational route into the industry.

Apply on thornleigh.bolton.sch.uk →
Apply now →

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