Free Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Wakefield – Wakefield College

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start30 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyUAL Awarding Body

About this course

Free Level 3 Performing and Production Arts Course in Wakefield. Classes run at Wakefield College, full-time during the day.

The course is designed for those who want to build a career in dance and the creative industries. Over two years, you'll develop performance skills, production techniques, and creative practice across a range of disciplines. Entry requires four GCSEs at Grade 9 to 4, including English or Maths, plus a satisfactory interview or audition.

You'll finish with a University of the Arts London Diploma in Performing and Production Arts.

Who this course is for

In Partnership with - Empath Action CIS, Dance Action Zone Leeds

This study programme is the Level 3 Diploma/Extended Diploma in Performing and Production Arts and is designed to for those who wish to pursue a career in dance and study in a vibrant and professional environment. All Mechanics’ Performing Arts courses have been created for any young person who is excited about developing a career in the creative industries.

The course provides an opportunity for those who have an interest in the performing arts to explore, develop and test their creativity within a qualification structure which is stimulating, demanding and provides a supportive transition from general to more specialised study.

This specialist qualification will enable you to apply for dance and performing arts degree programmes or audition directly for advanced training in the dance industry to specialist schools. Past students have progressed to a range of universities and colleges including, University Centre Wakefield, LIPA, NSCD, SLP, Bird College, Shockout Arts, Middlesex University, MADD.

You will also have the opportunity to go on theatre and dance trips and participate in workshops given by professional theatre companies and visiting practitioners.

Dance performance and choreography is a major part of the course, and you will have many opportunities to perform in the College theatre and at a range of external events and venues. The course will be enhanced by visiting practitioners and local dance companies. We have performed at Move It, Can You Dance, FRESH, Hepworth Gallery, Yorkshire Sculpture Park, Production Park and various dance platforms within the region.

This is a practical dance-based course with many opportunities to perform before public audiences and with academic and theory work threaded throughout.

Work experience is also an intrinsic component on the course and all students have the opportunity to work with industry professionals.

Entry requirements

4 GCSEs at Grade 9-4, including English or Maths and a Grade 3 in either English or Maths. OR 4 GCSEs at Grade 9-4 and Level 2 in either English or Maths. OR GCSE English or Maths at Grade 4 or Level 2 English or Maths and successful completion of Level 2 Performing & Production Arts or equivalent at Merit Grade.

PLUS Satisfactory interview/audition.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop performance skills across dance, acting, and related disciplines.
  • You'll study production arts, including technical and creative production processes.
  • You'll build choreography and movement skills for professional performance contexts.
  • You'll explore the creative industries and how they work professionally.
  • You'll develop skills in rehearsal, direction, and collaborative performance.
  • You'll create and present original performance work to an audience.

How you will learn

You'll learn through practical studio sessions, rehearsals, and classroom-based study. Assessment includes performance work, practical projects, and written assignments. You'll build a portfolio of creative work over the two years. Some units are assessed through live performance or production projects.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Wakefield College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Actor, performs in theatre, film, television, or live events.
  • Dancer, works in professional dance companies, shows, or touring productions.
  • Performing arts teacher, delivers dance or drama classes in schools or studios.
  • Stage manager, coordinates technical and creative elements of live productions.
  • Choreographer, creates and directs movement for performance.
  • Arts administrator, supports the running of theatres, companies, or festivals.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) in Dance or Performing Arts, a degree that deepens your specialist practice and opens graduate-level roles.
  • BA (Hons) in Drama, Theatre, or Musical Theatre, for those focusing on acting or musical performance.
  • Higher National Diploma in Performing Arts, a work-focused Level 5 route if you prefer to stay in vocational study.

Related courses at Wakefield College

More courses near you