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Free BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Walsall – Walsall Academy

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 Walsall. Classes run full-time at Walsall Academy over two years. This level 3 btec performing arts course develops a wide range of performance skills across acting, production, and professional practice. You'll build the technical and creative abilities that employers in the performing arts industry look for. Entry requires four GCSEs at grades 9 to 4, or equivalent. The course is assessed through practical work and assignments rather than written exams.

Who this course is for

BTEC Nationals in Drama are highly valued by employers because the courses give you skills which prepare you for the Performing Arts Industry and work as a professional actor. During the course you will develop a wide breadth of performing skills which translate well into the professional arena. If you have a passion for Drama our courses will aid you in developing your skill base to become a well-rounded and skilled performer. The course is an ideal qualification if you have aspirations to attend a Drama university or conservatoire after Sixth Form. Students leaving the course have gone on to have success in acting and performance degrees at professional and well-respected establishments such as ALRA, LAINE and Central. Career opportunities can include work in the fields of: professional actor, freelance performer, arts administration, arts production, direction and dramaturgy, and teaching/training.

Edexcel BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate

  • Unit 1 - Investigating practitioners’ work (Core)
  • Unit 2 - Developing Skills and Techniques for live performance (Core)
  • Unit 3 - Group Performance Work (Core)

Optional units to include:

  • Interpreting Classical Text for Performance, Acting Styles, Improvisation or Movement in Performance

Edexcel BTEC Level 3 Diploma

  • Unit 1 - Investigating practitioners’ work (Core)
  • Unit 2 - Developing Skills and Techniques for live performance (Core)
  • Unit 3 - Group Performance Work (Core)
  • Unit 4 - Performing Arts in the Community (Core)
  • Unit 5 - Individual Performance Commission (Core)
  • Unit 6 - Final Live Performance to an Audience (Core)

Optional units to include:

  • Theatre Directing, Writing for Performance, Physical Theatre Techniques or Storytelling

Entry requirements

  • 4 GCSEs (Grades 9 - 4) or equivalent

What you will learn

  • You'll develop acting techniques and performance skills for professional contexts.
  • You'll study voice, movement, and physical performance methods.
  • You'll explore script analysis and character development.
  • You'll work on devised and scripted productions from rehearsal to performance.
  • You'll learn how the performing arts industry operates, including professional roles and pathways.
  • You'll develop collaborative skills through ensemble and group performance work.

How you will learn

The Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Diploma is assessed through coursework, practical performances, and assignments. There are no traditional written exams. You'll complete units through studio-based classes, rehearsals, and productions at Walsall Academy. Assessment is ongoing throughout the two years, with work marked against set criteria for each unit.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Actor. Entry-level stage, screen, or community theatre roles.
  • Drama facilitator. Leading workshops in schools or community settings.
  • Theatre technician. Supporting productions backstage in lighting, sound, or stage management.
  • Performing arts teacher or assistant. Supporting drama in schools or colleges.
  • Community arts worker. Delivering arts projects for charities or local organisations.
  • Casting assistant. Supporting casting directors in film, TV, or theatre.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) in Performing Arts or Drama. A degree at a university or conservatoire, building on your BTEC for a career in performance or arts education.
  • Level 4 HNC in Performing Arts. A shorter higher education route if you want to specialise further before committing to a full degree.
  • PGCE in Drama. If you want to teach drama in secondary schools, you'll need a degree first, then a teaching qualification.
Apply on walsallacademy.com →
Apply now →

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