Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Bolton for 16 to 18 Year Olds

CostFree for 16 to 18 year olds
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start6 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

A sixth-form course for 16 to 18 year olds. Aged 19 or over? Check which courses you can do free.

About this course

Free Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Bolton. Classes run at The Sixth Form Bolton, full-time over two years.

The course is highly practical. You'll explore a range of performance disciplines, from devising original theatre to developing skills in voice, movement, and group performance. Units cover investigating practitioners, developing skills and techniques for live performance, group performance workshop, and an optional unit such as voice acting. You'll also build transferable skills in creativity, communication, and leadership.

You'll need a strong GCSE profile to apply, including English Language and Maths, and an audition is required. You'll finish with a Pearson Edexcel BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in Performing Arts.

Who this course is for

This is a highly practical course where you will gain and develop a range of performance disciplines. Your teachers have worked in the professional industry and use their experiences to help you devise and develop performances. This is an intense but fun course where you will have the opportunity to develop your own theatre company and create original work, providing you with organisational and leadership skills which will benefit you in any career path.

Entry requirements

Students studying three A Levels will be expected to have a minimum of two GCSEs at grade 6 and three GCSEs at grade 5/4, including English Language and Mathematics at grade 5/4 or above. Or eight GCSEs at a minimum of grade 5. Students not studying Drama should have a proven record in the interest of performing arts by having participated in extra-curricular clubs and enrichment for example drama clubs or school productions. To gain entry to this course you will be required to attend an audition

What you will learn

  • You'll investigate the work of key performing arts practitioners and their influence on theatre.
  • You'll develop skills and techniques for live performance across a range of styles and genres.
  • You'll devise and perform original work as part of a group performance workshop.
  • You'll explore an optional specialism such as voice acting.
  • You'll build creativity, problem-solving, and leadership skills through practical projects.
  • You'll experience live theatre productions and work with visiting professionals.

How you will learn

Learning is classroom-based and practical. You'll take part in live performances, devising sessions, and workshops. Assessment is through units completed over the two years, combining practical performance work and written investigation. You'll also attend external theatre productions as part of your studies.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Actor, performs in theatre, film, television, or radio productions.
  • Dancer, works in stage productions, music videos, or live events.
  • Theatre practitioner, creates and delivers performance work in community or educational settings.
  • Drama workshop leader, runs creative sessions for schools or community groups.
  • Stage manager, coordinates productions behind the scenes.
  • Performing arts teacher or technician, supports performance training in schools or colleges.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing Arts, a larger Pearson BTEC qualification for learners wanting a full vocational programme before higher education.
  • BA (Hons) in Performing Arts or Drama, a degree for those aiming to work professionally in performance.
  • Higher National Diploma (HND) in Performing Arts, a Level 5 option for those preferring a college-based route into the industry.

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