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Free Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Southend-on-Sea – South Essex College Southend Campus

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyUAL Awarding Body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Level 3 Performing and Production Arts Course in Southend-on-Sea. Classes run at South Essex College Southend Campus, full-time over two years.

The course focuses on musical theatre. You'll train in singing, acting, ballet, tap, and jazz. Units also cover music theory, voice work, text analysis, and body conditioning. Learning is project-based, so you build a portfolio of practical performance work alongside your studies.

You'll need a Level 2 qualification or four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English or maths. An audition and interview are also part of the application. You'll finish with a University of the Arts London Extended Diploma in Performing and Production Arts.

Who this course is for

This course will give you all you need to pursue a career in the performing arts as an actor, or as a stepping stone to drama school or university.

Entry requirements

Level 2 qualification or GCSEs x 4 at grade 4/C - one to be grade 4/C in ENGLISH OR MATHS dependent on vocational subject to be studied You will be asked to evidence your ability in the subject in the form of an audition Successful attendance at interview event

What you will learn

  • You'll develop singing techniques, both solo and as part of an ensemble.
  • You'll study musical theatre acting techniques and text analysis.
  • You'll train in ballet, tap, and jazz dance.
  • You'll work on your speaking voice, including articulation and projection.
  • You'll explore musical theatre styles and genres through research and creative projects.
  • You'll build physical fitness and body conditioning for performance.
  • You'll study music theory to support your practical work.
  • You'll develop self-evaluation and reflective skills through portfolio work.

How you will learn

The course is delivered through a series of performance projects in the classroom and on stage. You'll be assessed through project and portfolio work, practical tasks, live performances, and self-evaluation. Reflective processes form part of your ongoing assessment. There are no written exams. Learning is hands-on throughout, with each project building on the last.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. South Essex College Southend Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Actor, performs in theatre, film, television, or touring productions.
  • Dancer, works in musical theatre, commercial dance, or live events.
  • Performer, takes roles in stage shows, cruise ships, or theme parks.
  • Stage manager, coordinates productions behind the scenes.
  • Drama facilitator, leads workshops in schools or community settings.
  • Performing arts technician, supports lighting, sound, or set for live shows.

What you could study next

  • A degree at drama school or university, the most common next step after this qualification, with many graduates progressing directly into vocational training.
  • A Higher National Diploma in Performing Arts, for those who want a shorter higher-education route before entering the industry.
  • A postgraduate course in acting or musical theatre, for those returning to study after gaining professional experience.
Apply on southessex.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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