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, full-time during the day. This performing and production arts qualification focuses on acting for TV, film and radio, musical theatre, vocal and physical technique, movement, and audition skills. You'll work with industry practitioners through a partnership with Northern Stage, and perform at working venues. The course takes one year. You'll need GCSE English at grade 4 or above, plus three other GCSEs at grade 4 or above; relevant Level 2 vocational qualifications are also considered.

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 acting techniques for TV, film, radio, and stage.
  • You'll build vocal and physical performance skills.
  • You'll practise musical theatre performance.
  • You'll learn movement and physical theatre techniques.
  • You'll prepare for auditions across different performance contexts.
  • You'll perform at a range of working venues, including professional theatre spaces.
  • You'll work alongside industry practitioners on real productions.

How you will learn

Learning is practical and hands-on, delivered through a mix of classroom sessions, workshops, and studio work. You'll be assessed continuously through class-based assignments and a portfolio of evidence. Tutors have professional industry experience. You'll also benefit from specialist one-to-one vocal or instrumental tuition and access to on-campus performance and recording facilities.

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

  • Actor: stage, film, and television performance roles.
  • Singer or musical theatre performer: live and recorded productions.
  • Stage manager: coordinating productions behind the scenes.
  • Voice coach: supporting performers with vocal technique.
  • Community arts practitioner: running workshops and outreach projects.
  • Talent agent assistant: supporting performers in the industry.
  • Production assistant: supporting TV, film, or theatre productions.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) in Acting, Drama, or Performing Arts: a degree at a university or conservatoire, building on your UAL Extended Diploma.
  • BA (Hons) in Theatre Production or Stage Management: for those drawn to the technical and production side.
  • Higher National Diploma (HND) in Performing Arts: a two-year higher-level qualification if you want to continue studying before committing to a full degree.