Level 3 Performing Arts Course in Durham. Classes run at East Durham College Houghall Campus, full-time during the day. You'll need five GCSEs at grades A* to C, including Maths and English, to join. The course runs for 36 weeks and covers performance and production across music, dance, drama, and production. You'll develop techniques, create your own performances, and take part in live projects at on-site and external venues, including a ferry performance to Holland and a community pantomime. This is a hands-on level 3 performing arts qualification that puts you in front of real audiences.
Who this course is for
The OCR Level 3 programmes are designed to help you extend your understanding of performance and production whilst developing your skills in music, production, dance or drama; you will learn techniques as well as create your own performances. You will work on production projects and be involved in many activities both onsite and at external venues. Learners have the opportunity to perform on board the ferry to Holland, participate in the annual Community Pantomime, operate gigs and be made up as a zombie for the Zombie Apocalypse Halloween event. If you are passionate about working in the Arts, then this is the programme for you.
Entry requirements
5 A*-C grade GCSEs (including Maths and English).
What you will learn
You'll develop performance techniques across music, dance, and drama
You'll build production skills including stage management and technical operation
You'll create and present your own performances to live audiences
You'll work on production projects at on-site and external venues
You'll operate gigs and live events as part of your training
You'll take part in a community pantomime production
You'll gain experience performing at external locations, including a ferry performance to Holland
How you will learn
You'll learn through a mix of classroom sessions, practical workshops, and live production projects. Assessment is coursework-based, with performance work, production projects, and portfolio evidence. You'll work both on campus and at external venues, applying your skills in real performance and production settings throughout the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. East Durham College Houghall Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Actor or performer: stage, screen, or touring productions
Stage manager: coordinating live performance logistics
Production technician: lighting, sound, or set operation
Drama facilitator: leading workshops in schools or community settings
Dance performer or choreographer: working in dance companies or education
Events technician: operating gigs and live events
Theatre administrator: supporting productions behind the scenes
What you could study next
BA (Hons) in Performing Arts or Drama: a degree for those wanting to specialise further in performance or production at university level
HNC or HND in Performing Arts: a higher-level vocational route if you want to stay in college-based study
PGCE or teacher training: if you want to teach performing arts in schools or colleges after gaining further experience
