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Free Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Widnes – Cronton Sixth Form College

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyUAL Awarding Body
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About this course

Free Level 3 Performing and Production Arts Course in Widnes. Classes run full-time at Cronton Sixth Form College, five days a week during the day.

The course covers performance, production, and technical skills across two years of intensive study. You'll explore acting, dance, and production arts, building practical experience through performance projects and creative work. Entry normally requires five or more GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and Maths.

You'll finish with an Extended Diploma in Performing and Production Arts.

Who this course is for

Aimed at School Leavers. The Professional Theatre Programme (PTP) is an intensive, exciting and challenging practical course for actors. Over two years you will learn the core skills an actor needs to deliver a professional performance. You will begin training your voice and your physical awareness through a range of performance projects including Devising, Physical Theatre, Clowning, Classical Theatre, Audition Technique and Comedy. Studying a wide range of styles will enable you to develop a rich vocabulary of performance techniques in preparation for your final performance at the end of year two. All assessed shows for ional and Performance take place before an audience giving you vital live performance experience from the outset and providing you with the opportunity to do what you do best! All rehearsals are designed in a manner that reflects today's working industry.All of your assessments and performances take place in The Cronton Playhouse; a purpose-built, state-of-the-art, two tiered 300 seat theatre. This will give you a true experience of working in a professional level theatre.Actors on the PTP will be taken to watch live performances at some of the best regional theatres as well as London's West End. Recent theatre trips have included Tmesis Theatre; the national tour of Warhorse; Spymonkey; The Royal Shakespeare Company and Phantom of the Opera.We pride ourselves on not only providing students with the relevant performance skills needed, but also the business skills needed to become a working actor rather than just an aspiring one.We regularly invite working practitioners in who will deliver workshops in cutting-edge theatre practice to provide our students with relevant skills needed in today's industry.

Entry requirements

Your GCSE results will determine the level you start at:

Level 3 - Five or more GCSEs at grade 9-4 including English Language and Maths

Level 2 - Four or more GCSEs at grade 9-3 including English Language and Maths

Level 1 - Four or more GCSEs at grade 9-2 including English Language and Maths

Specific grades are required in certain subjects. Find out about individual entry requirements within the course information on the college website or at your college interview.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop performance skills in acting, dance, and physical theatre.
  • You'll learn technical production skills, including lighting, sound, and stage management.
  • You'll create and perform in productions for real audiences.
  • You'll study choreography and movement for performance.
  • You'll explore the history and context of performing arts.
  • You'll build skills in devising and directing original work.
  • You'll work collaboratively on large-scale performance projects.

How you will learn

You'll learn through practical workshops, rehearsals, and performance projects in the classroom and on stage. Assessment is largely practical, with performances, productions, and portfolio work. Some units also include written assignments and reflective journals. You'll be assessed throughout the course rather than in a single final exam.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Cronton Sixth Form College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Actor, performs in theatre, film, television, or commercial productions.
  • Dancer, works in professional dance companies, touring shows, or music videos.
  • Stage manager, coordinates productions from rehearsal through to performance.
  • Lighting or sound technician, operates technical equipment for live events.
  • Theatre production assistant, supports creative teams on stage productions.
  • Dance teacher or workshop leader, delivers classes in schools or community settings.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) in Performing Arts or Drama, a university degree for those wanting to deepen performance or directing skills.
  • BA (Hons) in Dance, offered at universities and conservatoires for dancers pursuing professional training.
  • Foundation Degree in Theatre Production, a work-focused route into technical and production roles.
  • Conservatoire or vocational dance school audition programmes, for performers aiming at elite professional training.
Apply on cronton.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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