Level 4 HNC Performing Arts in Wakefield – Wakefield College

Cost£7,400.00
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 4
DeliveryClassroom based
Start30 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Level 4 HNC Performing Arts in Wakefield. Classes run full-time at Wakefield College, with daytime attendance over one year. This level 4 hnc performing arts course focuses on dance, training performers, choreographers and dance practitioners at higher education level. It is the first year of a two-year programme delivered in partnership with Empath Action CIC and Dance Action Zone Leeds. You will need 64 UCAS tariff points from A Levels, a Level 3 Extended Diploma in a related subject, or an Access course, plus GCSE Grade 4 or above in English Language. All applicants must audition.

Who this course is for

In Partnership with Dance Action Zone Leeds In Year One students complete a Higher National Certificate in Performing Arts (Dance) at Level 4. This year focuses on developing dancers’ technical ability, performance confidence and creative practice, while introducing the key principles of working within the professional performing arts industry. Students build strong foundations in both practical and theoretical aspects of dance training, preparing them for progression to higher-level study or employment.

The Level 4 course is designed to train performers, choreographers and dance practitioners to a professional standard for those wishing to pursue a career within the dance industry. Students receive professional training across a wide range of dance styles, including Jazz Technique, Commercial Dance, Contemporary Techniques, Classical Ballet and Tap Dance, alongside choreography, body conditioning and community dance teaching. Weekly conditioning classes enhance dance fitness and performance stamina, while also introducing acrobatic skills throughout the course. At selected times of the year, students may also experience aerial and silks training to further extend their physical and performance abilities. The breadth of training ensures students develop as versatile, employable and adaptable performers.

The course benefits from strong links with the professional dance industry, and graduates go on to work in a wide range of employment areas, including professional dance companies, cruise ships, freelance performance and dance teaching. Throughout the programme, students take part in industry-led days where guest speakers such as professional dancers, choreographers, professional artists and former graduates provide insight into current industry expectations and career routes.

Entry requirements

64 UCAS tariff points from A Levels or a Level 3 Extended Diploma in a related subject.

OR

An Access course.

GCSE Grade 4 or above in English Language (or equivalent qualification) is required.

All applicants are required to audition, consisting of an interview and a dance class, alongside preparing a solo dance in a style of your choice lasting between 1 and 1.5 minutes long..

What you will learn

  • You'll develop performance skills as a dancer across a range of styles and contexts.
  • You'll study choreography and learn to create and direct your own dance work.
  • You'll build knowledge of dance practice and the wider performing arts industry.
  • You'll explore the work of professional practitioners and apply it to your own practice.
  • You'll develop skills in critical analysis and reflection on performance.
  • You'll prepare for professional auditions, rehearsals and collaborative projects.

How you will learn

You'll learn through studio-based classes, workshops and rehearsals at Wakefield College. Assessment is practical and academic, including performances, choreographic projects and written assignments. You will also prepare and present a solo dance piece as part of the entry audition process. The programme is delivered in partnership with Empath Action CIC and Dance Action Zone Leeds.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Wakefield College will confirm anything else you need before you start. You should expect to bring appropriate dance clothing and footwear for studio sessions.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Performer: work as a professional dancer in theatre, touring or commercial productions.
  • Choreographer: create and direct dance work for companies or independent projects.
  • Dance teacher: teach dance in schools, studios or community settings.
  • Community dance practitioner: lead dance projects for community or health organisations.
  • Dance company artist: work within a professional dance company.
  • Arts project coordinator: support the planning and delivery of performing arts events.

What you could study next

  • Higher National Diploma in Performing Arts (Dance) at Level 5: the natural next step after this Certificate, available through the same programme at Wakefield College.
  • BA (Hons) in Dance or Performing Arts: a Level 6 degree at a university, for which this HNC provides a recognised entry route.
  • PGCE or QTS route: if you want to move into teaching dance in schools after completing a degree.

Related courses at Wakefield College

More courses near you