Menu
BTEC Performing Arts

BTEC Performing Arts

Why study Performing Arts? 

The BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Performing Arts is a two-year, full-time course equivalent to two A-levels, designed for learners passionate about performance. This qualification provides a rich, practical experience across acting, dance, musical theatre, and production. Whether your goal is university, drama school, or working in the creative industries, this course offers the training, insight, and confidence to succeed. 

What will I study?

You will complete 8 units: 6 mandatory and 2 optional, giving you a well-rounded foundation in the performing arts alongside the chance to tailor the course to your strengths and career interests. 

Mandatory Units: 

  • Unit 1: Investigating Practitioners’ Work (External) 
  • Unit 2: Developing Skills and Techniques for Live Performance (Internal) 
  • Unit 3: Group Performance Workshop (External) 
  • Unit 4: Performing Arts in the Community (Internal) 
  • Unit 5: Individual Performance Commission (External) 
  • Unit 6: Final Live Performance to an Audience (Internal) 

Optional Units Include: 

  • Acting Styles 
  • Musical Theatre Techniques 
  • Storytelling 

Which exam board and how will I be assessed?

This course is awarded by Pearson and is assessed through a mix of external assessments and internally assessed coursework. Assessments are practical, performance-based, and tailored to reflect real-world performing arts industry standards. 

Where could it take me?

Higher Education 
Progress to university or drama school with qualifications recognised for entry to degrees in: 

  • Acting, Dance, Musical Theatre 
  • Theatre Studies, Stage Management, Production Arts 
  • Creative Arts, Performing Arts Education 

Professional Performing Arts Training 
Apply to leading institutions like RADA, LAMDA, Trinity Laban, or ArtsEd for specialist development. 

Creative Industry Careers 

  • Actor, Dancer, Singer, Choreographer, Director 
  • Stage Manager, Technician, Theatre Educator, Community Arts Leader 

 Apprenticeships & Work-Based Training 

  • Theatre companies 
  • TV and film production 
  • Arts organisations and festivals 

Transferable Skills for Any Career 
This course also builds key skills such as teamwork, communication, time management, confidence, and creative problem-solving—valuable in a wide range of professions. 

Subject combinations

The course combines very well with a vast range of other subjects, performance related, visual arts courses, humanities and languages. 

What support is available?

Outside of the lessons, we provide support with both practical and theoretical content alongside the extensive cross-college study support. Supervised rehearsals in the lead up to exams help students reach their highest potential. Facilities include a 200-seat studio theatre with industry standard lighting and sound equipment. 

What extracurricular activities are available?

There are workshop and theatre visits both here and abroad. Recent activities have included movement workshops on Broadway in New York, acting workshops with directors from London drama schools, masterclasses with directors from The National Theatre and RSC and theatre visits across the country. The department was recently invited to perform at the Royal National Theatre, a very prestigious reward for our entry to the Connections Festival. 

We have an extensive programme of plays and musicals each year so that you can offer your services as a performer, theatre technician or backstage. We enter festivals and provide bespoke support for auditions and student-led projects. 

Back