Free Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Gateshead – Gateshead College Baltic Campus

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyUAL Awarding Body

About this course

Free Level 3 Performing and Production Arts Course in Gateshead. Classes run at Gateshead College Baltic Campus. This full-time, daytime performing and production arts course focuses on urban, jazz, and street dance styles, alongside choreography and musical theatre performance. You'll also explore the dance industry and the career options it opens up. Entry requires GCSE English at Grade 4 or above, plus three other GCSEs at Grade 4 or above; relevant Level 2 vocational qualifications are also considered. You'll also need to pass an audition. The course runs for one year.

Who this course is for

If you want to work in the performance industry as an actor, singer or all-rounder, on stage, film or television, then this programme is for you. Through our unique partnership with Northern Stage, you will benefit from first class workshops and tuition from industry practitioners. You will develop skills in acting for TV, film and radio, musical theatre, vocal and physical technique, movement, audition survival and much more. You'll get the chance to perform in a variety of working venues, including at Northern Stage.

This programme is a stepping-stone into the professional industry, higher education or an exciting way to enhance your prospects in a wide number of industry sectors including sales, teaching and community work. It is designed to make sure you're properly prepared for work or for higher study. You'll work with the programme team to set aspirational targets, plan your studies effectively and continue to develop your English and maths skills. This will include studying for GCSEs or Functional Skills in English and maths if you don't already have them.

Our partnership with Northern Stage gives you access to one of the country’s leading new writing theatres, and their professional production team. Our acting and Live Events Production courses are developed with Northern Stage to make sure you learn the skills you really need.

Year 1 Main Qualification: BTEC Level 3 Extended National Certificate in Performing Arts

Year 2 Main Qualification: BTEC Level 3 Extended National Diploma in Performing Arts (Acting) or BTEC Level 3 Extended National Diploma in Performing Arts (Musical Theatre)

Entry requirements

How will I be assessed?

Continuous assessment using class based assignments and portfolio of evidence

How will I be taught?

A mixture of classroom, practical and workshop work.

The course is very practical, and is delivered by tutors with a wealth of experience.

Qualifications needed

You will need GCSE English at Grade 4 (C) or above, plus 3 other GCSEs at Grade 4 (C) or above (preferably including Maths). Relevant vocational qualifications at Level 2 will be considered. You will also need to pass an audition.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop technique across urban, jazz, and street dance styles.
  • You'll study choreography and create your own dance work.
  • You'll perform in musical theatre productions.
  • You'll rehearse and perform in a professional on-campus theatre.
  • You'll explore the business side of the dance and performing arts industry.
  • You'll build skills in communication, teamwork, and presenting.

How you will learn

You'll learn through practical, physical studio sessions in the classroom and on stage. Assessment is based on performance work, choreography projects, and coursework. You'll rehearse and perform in the campus theatre, take part in community performances, and receive specialist one-to-one tuition.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Gateshead College Baltic Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Commercial dancer: performing in live shows, music videos, and tours
  • Choreographer: creating and directing dance work for stage or screen
  • Dance teacher or coach: teaching in studios, schools, or community settings
  • Musical theatre performer: combining dance, singing, and acting on stage
  • Stage manager: coordinating productions behind the scenes
  • Community arts worker: running dance and arts projects locally

What you could study next

  • Foundation Degree or BA (Hons) in Performing Arts or Dance: a natural next step if you want to study at degree level; many universities accept this Diploma as entry.
  • UAL Level 3 Diploma in Technical Theatre: if you discover an interest in the production side during your studies.
  • Teaching qualification (such as a PGCE or Level 4 Education and Training): if you want to teach dance or performing arts.

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