Post A Job
Advertise Courses
Search Jobs
Search Courses

Free Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Widnes

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyUAL Awarding Body
Apply now →

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 Dance Programme (The PDP) at Cronton Sixth Form College is a nationally recognised qualification and is equivalent to three full A Levels. This unique and intensive practical course has been developed for both creative and technical dancers who hold the relevant performance skills for today's dance industry, leading to training at a university, conservatoire or vocational dance schools. Dancers studying on The Professional Dance Programme will have many opportunities throughout the two years to create and perform at a number of dance venues. Recent performances have included The Lowry in Manchester, MOVE IT at the London Olympia and Velocity. Dancers will participate in both practical and coursework assessments with an emphasis on performance, choreography and dance analysis. On the course, dancers will explore a range of dance styles including Jazz, Ballet, Lyrical and Contemporary. Taught by highly qualified industry professionals who have worked and toured nationally and internationally, The PDP is aimed at motivated and committed dance students who wish to pursue a career within the dance industry, such as performing, choreographing or teaching. The course is supported by three external patrons who offer students exceptional opportunities. In the past these have included exclusive workshops, work placements and choreographic mentorships.

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 →

Related courses at Cronton Sixth Form College

More courses near you