Free BTEC Level 3 Production Arts Course in Truro. Classes run at Truro College, full-time during the day. This one-year course covers the skills behind live music, theatre, film, exhibitions, and events. You'll explore sound engineering, lighting design, stage management, and the technical and creative roles that keep productions running. The course is free if you're 16 to 18 years old and a UK resident. You'll need four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language or Literature and/or Maths. Previous backstage experience is helpful but not required.
Who this course is for
Creative industries are rapidly expanding in the UK and if you have ever envied the sound engineer, found yourself gazing at the lighting rig, or wondered what is going on backstage then this is the course for you. For every music, theatre, and film production, for every exhibition, conference, community or corporate event, there are a whole team of backstage artists, designers, engineers, producers, managers, technicians, and crew. This course will allow you to develop the necessary skills to be able to assist backstage in a range of events. You will be taught with industry-standard equipment, and the opportunity to work on a variety of real events alongside your studies. Your achievement in this subject is dependent upon excellent attendance, teamwork, punctuality, and effort. You will learn in a friendly atmosphere, using a variety of assessment methods. Practical assessments are at the centre of course design and delivery.
Entry requirements
You will need four GCSEs at Grade 4 to include either English Language (or Literature) and/or Maths. A Level 2 Diploma at Merit in an appropriate subject can also be considered (plus GCSE English and/or Maths). Previous experience of backstage production would be beneficial.
What you will learn
You'll develop practical skills in sound engineering and audio production.
You'll explore lighting design and rigging for live events and performances.
You'll learn about stage management and backstage production roles.
You'll study set design, props, and scenic construction techniques.
You'll work on live production projects across theatre, music, and events.
You'll understand the roles and responsibilities of production crew and technical teams.
You'll build skills in planning, organising, and delivering productions.
How you will learn
Learning is classroom based and practical, with hands-on project work central to the course. Assessment is through assignments, portfolios, and practical production projects rather than written exams. You'll work on real productions and events, building a body of evidence across the year. Units are assessed by your tutors at Truro College against Pearson Edexcel criteria.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Truro College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Stage manager, coordinating all technical elements of a live production
Sound technician, operating and setting up audio equipment for events
Lighting technician, rigging and operating lights for theatre or live music
Production assistant, supporting the crew on film, TV, or theatre sets
Events technician, delivering technical support at conferences and exhibitions
Set designer or scenic artist, creating visual environments for productions
Theatre technician, maintaining equipment and supporting shows backstage
What you could study next
BTEC National Extended Diploma in Production Arts Practice (Level 3) - a larger qualification that strengthens your portfolio and university application.
Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in Performing Arts or Technical Theatre - a Level 4 or 5 route into specialist technical roles.
A degree in Theatre Production, Live Events Technology, or a related subject at university, building on your Foundation Diploma.
