Free Level 2 Performing Arts Course in Grays

CostFREE
Duration12 months
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyUAL Awarding Body

About this course

Free Level 2 Performing and Production Arts Course in Grays. Classes run at South Essex College of Further and Higher Education, full-time over 12 months. The course is free for those aged under 19 and not in employment.

You'll get hands-on experience in staging, lighting design, sound design, and set design. Working as a crew member, you'll use professional equipment including lighting desks, vision mixers, and digital sound mixing desks. The course also supports real productions and live events throughout the year.

You'll finish with a Level 2 Diploma in Performing and Production Arts.

Who this course is for

This course provides an exciting and hands-on introduction into the world of live events and the backstage theatre industries. The course, which runs from our Thurrock Campus in Grays, supports college performances, productions, events and external live briefs throughout the year. Students learn a wide range of production skills and are able to specialise in more specific skills for progression to Level 3 Performing and Production Arts.

Working initially as a crew member, students will be introduced to staging, health and safety, lighting design, sound design and set design. Students will work with a range of hardware such as the GrandMa lighting desk, intelligent lighting fixtures, vision mixers, video cameras and a range of digital sound mixing desks.

Entry requirements

Level 1 qualification or GCSEs x 2 at grade 3/D in MATHS or ENGLISH

A relevant performing arts qualification is desirable, but not essential

Successful attendance at interview event

What you will learn

  • You'll learn the fundamentals of staging and how to set up a performance space.
  • You'll develop skills in lighting design, including working with intelligent lighting fixtures and a GrandMa lighting desk.
  • You'll practise sound design using digital mixing desks.
  • You'll explore set design and how to build and dress a stage.
  • You'll work with video cameras and vision mixers for live event production.
  • You'll study health and safety practices for live events and theatre.
  • You'll take part in a personal project, creating and presenting your own work.
  • You'll perform and produce work for a live audience.

How you will learn

The course is classroom and studio based, with practical sessions supporting college productions, events, and external live briefs. You'll be assessed through internally marked units, which are then moderated internally and externally against set assessment criteria. You'll work as part of a crew on real productions throughout the year, building your skills in a professional environment.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. South Essex College of Further and Higher Education will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Stage technician, sets up and operates equipment for live events and theatre.
  • Lighting technician, rigs and operates lighting for productions.
  • Sound technician, manages audio for live events and performances.
  • Set designer, creates and builds stage sets for theatre and events.
  • Production assistant, supports the running of live events and shows.
  • Actor, performs in theatre, film, and live productions.
  • Dancer, performs in stage shows and live events.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Performing and Production Arts, the natural next step for those who want to specialise further in lighting, sound, or production.
  • Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing Arts, for those looking to develop performance skills alongside technical knowledge.
  • A University of the Arts London Foundation course, for learners aiming toward higher education in the creative arts.

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