Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Colchester – Adult Skills Centre Colchester – Daytime

CostFREE
Duration9 months
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyUAL Awarding Body

About this course

Level 3 Performing and Production Arts Course in Colchester. Classes run full-time at Adult Skills Centre Colchester. It's free if you're 16 to 18 years old. If you're 19 or over, fees may apply.

The course covers practical dance techniques including Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, Commercial, Ballet, and Choreography. You'll also study theory, write analytical essays, and develop your English, maths, and employability skills. Workshops, lectures, seminars, and live performances all form part of your training. The course runs over nine months in Year 1. Entry requires five GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 including English and Maths, or a Level 2 equivalent, plus an interview and audition.

You'll finish with a University of the Arts London Diploma in Performing and Production Arts.

Who this course is for

This programme is suited to learners who are committed to going into the performing arts and who appreciate the need for both the practical and academic skills to survive the rigours of the performing arts industry.

Entry requirements

5 GCSEs (9-4) including English and Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills equivalent, or satisfactory results (Merit/Distinction) in a relevant Level 2 qualification, and an audition/interview.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop practical techniques in Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, Commercial, and Ballet dance.
  • You'll study Choreography and create your own dance work.
  • You'll analyse practical work through written evaluations and essays.
  • You'll study key texts and practitioners in the performing arts.
  • You'll perform in productions including an annual dance evening.
  • You'll strengthen your English, maths, and employability skills alongside your main programme.

How you will learn

Most of your work is practical and continuously assessed to track your progress. You'll take part in workshops, lectures, seminars, tutorials, and traditional classroom sessions. Written evaluations and essays form part of the academic side. Skills developed across individual units come together in live performances.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Adult Skills Centre Colchester will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Actor, performing on stage, screen, or in commercial productions.
  • Dancer, working in theatre, television, or live events.
  • Choreographer, creating and directing dance for performances.
  • Dance teacher, leading classes in schools or private studios.
  • Performing arts technician, supporting productions behind the scenes.
  • Community arts worker, running creative projects for local groups.

What you could study next

  • Extended Diploma in Performing and Production Arts (Level 3), the natural next step at Year 2 of this programme, deepening your performance and production skills.
  • Higher National Certificate or Degree in Performing Arts, for those wanting to study at university level after completing the Diploma.
  • PGCE or teaching qualification, if you want to move into dance or performing arts education.