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Free Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Stratford-upon-Avon

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 Stratford-upon-Avon. Classes run at Stratford-upon-Avon College, full-time during the day.

The course covers all areas of technical theatre. You'll study lighting, sound, stage management, design for stage, and professional practice. Units include production planning, portfolio workshops, and work on live shows across acting, dance, and musical theatre. The course runs over two years. Assessment is continuous, based on your planning, production, and performance work. You'll also complete written projects including research, presentations, and reflections.

To apply, you'll need at least four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language, or a relevant Level 2 vocational qualification. You'll also attend an interview and audition. You'll finish with a University of the Arts London Extended Diploma in Performing and Production Arts at Level 3.

Who this course is for

The Level 3 Extended Diploma programme is a vocational course covering all aspects of technical theatre including lighting for theatre, sound for theatre, stage management, design for stage and professional practice. Delivered by experienced and specialised technical theatre and performing arts professionals you will be able to build upon your previous performance experience supporting your progression to university, stage school or employment.

Entry requirements

You will need to have a least one of the following: 4 GCSEs at grade C / grade 4 or above, including English Language or Level 2 qualification in a relevant vocational subject area and GCSE English Language at grade C / grade 4 or above. You are also required to attend an interview and audition.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop skills in lighting design and operation for theatre.
  • You'll learn sound design and operation for live performance.
  • You'll practise stage management across a range of productions.
  • You'll explore design for stage, including set and production design.
  • You'll build skills in production planning and maintenance.
  • You'll create and present a portfolio of your practical work.
  • You'll work on devised installations and live shows alongside acting, dance, and musical theatre students.

How you will learn

Most of the course is delivered through practical sessions, tutorials, rehearsal observations, and live performances. You'll work on real productions throughout the two years. You'll also complete written work for each project, including research, presentations, reflections, and evaluations. Assessment is continuous and linked to your planning, production, and operation work.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Stratford-upon-Avon College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Stage manager, oversees the running of theatre productions from rehearsal to performance.
  • Lighting technician, designs and operates lighting rigs for live shows.
  • Sound technician, manages audio equipment and sound design for performances.
  • Production assistant, supports directors and producers across theatre or TV projects.
  • Actor, performs in theatre, film, television, or other live productions.
  • Dancer, performs in stage shows, music videos, or touring productions.
  • Set designer, creates the visual environment for theatre and live events.

What you could study next

  • A degree in Technical Theatre, Stage Management, or Performing Arts at university, building on the performing and production arts qualification you've earned.
  • A degree in Acting or Dance at a specialist stage school or conservatoire.
  • A Higher National Diploma in Creative Media or Performing Arts, for a shorter higher-level route before a full degree.
Apply on stratford.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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