Level 4 HNC Performing Arts in Daventry. Classes run full-time at Northampton College at Daventry, with daytime attendance over one year. This Pearson Edexcel level 4 hnc performing arts course focuses on singing, acting, and dance, developed through practical workshop-style classes. You'll perform in public productions each year and develop skills across musical theatre disciplines. Entry requires 48 UCAS points (equivalent to two A Level grade D or above, or a BTEC Extended Diploma pass), plus a grade 4 in English and Maths GCSE, and completion of a practical audition task.
Who this course is for
The HNC (Year 1) and HND (Year 2) in Dance is aimed at people looking to make dance performance or dance teaching a career. It develops skills in a range of dance styles with the opportunity to perform on stage to a variety of audiences. The School of the Arts benefits from cutting-edge facilities in a building which gives students access to the studios and equipment necessary to gain the knowledge and skills demanded by a fast-moving and competitive industry. The Higher National (Certificate & Diploma) Dance are for students who have reached Level 3 in this discipline either at school, college or stage school. You will be looking to progress further into the performing arts industry, specialising in dance, or into dance teaching. The course will enable you to develop further competences in solo and group performance and prepare you for auditioning for parts on the professional stage. The successful applicant is likely, but not necessarily, to have performed in public and developed at least basic skills in dance and choreography, ready to be taken to the next level by experienced professionals with a background in the industry.
Entry requirements
48 UCAS points which are equal to two D Grades or above at A Level, pass grades at BTEC Extended Diploma Level or MP at Level 3 Diploma, plus a 4 Grade in English & Maths GCSE and complete the practical tasks that will be sent to you.
What you will learn
You'll develop singing technique and performance skills for musical theatre.
You'll train in acting for musical theatre and build on your dramatic skills.
You'll study classical ballet, jazz dance, tap dance, and commercial dance.
You'll explore dance for musical theatre and dance health principles.
You'll perform on stage in public productions, including large-scale events.
You'll study the historical context of the performing arts.
You'll build employability skills relevant to the performing arts industry.
How you will learn
Classes are delivered in a practical, workshop-based format. You'll work individually and in groups, supported by lecturers and technicians with theatre experience. Learning takes place in dance studios, performance studios, and theatre and TV studio spaces. Assessment includes practical performance work and at least two public productions per year.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Northampton College at Daventry will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Performer (musical theatre) - stage, touring, and repertory productions
Singer or vocalist - live performance and events work
Dancer - commercial, stage, or community performance
Drama facilitator - leading workshops in schools or community settings
Performing arts technician - supporting productions backstage
Events and entertainment coordinator - managing live performance events
What you could study next
HND in Performing Arts (Level 5) - the natural next step, deepening specialist skills and often leading to the final year of a degree.
BA (Hons) in Musical Theatre or Performing Arts - many universities accept an HNC as entry to Year 2, shortening the degree route.
Specialist stage school training - some graduates use the HNC as preparation for audition-based entry to top conservatoires and stage schools.
