Performing Arts BTEC Diploma
(equivalent to two A Levels)
BTEC Diploma | EDEXCEL
We recommend this course for those that are looking for a wrap-around foundation programme, those who are looking to go onto drama/performing arts schools. This course gives you an understanding of all aspects of Performing Arts including acting and dance options, and combines it with the opportunity to focus on both performance and production support. You will work as part of the College’s ClassAction Performance Company and you will be challenged to professional standards of creative collaboration. This is a practical vocational course, requiring imagination, sensitivity and the ability to get on well with others.Within the department we aim to create an environment that truthfully reflects that of a professional rehearsal space, based on mutual respect, trust, and a shared passion. Giving equality of time, effort and imagination in line with colleagues and tutors, our students develop from within a strong ensemble group whilst the individual is simultaneously nurtured.
This course covers a range of Acting/Movement skills and techniques. With our dedicated team of professionals guiding and supporting you, you will explore different acting styles and approaches and look at the work of different playwrights and practitioners.
You will develop your acting and vocal skills, prepare audition material, and develop your rehearsal and performance skills. You will explore ensemble, create and devise material through rehearsal and learn to refine your work before performing to a public audiences. The advanced training requires a high level of self-discipline and commitment, and will require you to attend rehearsals and performances throughout the two years.
Course details
What are the entry requirements?
A mimnimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above inlcuding English.
The Diploma is a demanding and intensive training course offering a comprehensive performing arts training. Prospective practitioners must have talent, self-belief, motivation, commitment, dedication, self-discipline and an open attitude. Actors must be able to take responsibility for their own development, have good time management skills and a passion for their craft.
How will I be assessed?
You will be encouraged to demonstrate your skills and talent by being assessed in practical ways. You will be assessed through portfolio, written work and performance by your subject tutors. Your work will be moderated by a visiting moderator. Each unit is awarded points, which are translated into an overall grade by the examiners at the end of the course.
For the National Diploma (equivalent to two A-Levels) students will complete 8 modules over 2 years.
What skills will I learn?
This Level 3 Performing Arts Diploma is a unique two-year training programme where young practitioners learn to work as professionals in a modern, industry-relevant environment. Here you have the opportunity to develop your own foundation study programme by taking this alongside a Drama & Theatre A Level to build a unique performance preparation programme of study.
You will work as part of a theatre company whilst developing your own skills in voice and movement and using them to create believable and fully rounded characters for the stage. ClassAction aims to produce performers who are both dynamic and interesting and who can draw on their own, often varied and wide ranging life experiences, to produce work that is truthful and engaging.
The course includes written work based around research and personal development, and requires you to keep reflective journals of your work and to evaluate yourself both during and after rehearsal and performance.
What is the department like?
We are housed in a well-equipped performance studio within our Performing Arts Building with a second smaller studio space, rehearsal rooms, scene dock and industry standard control room. We also have a purpose built dance studio with sprung floors, mirrors and barre. These provide a comfortable working atmosphere with easy access to technical equipment needed for the course.
Prospective practitioners must have talent, self-belief, motivation, commitment, dedication, self-discipline and an open attitude. You should have good time management skills and a passion for your craft.
Future Careers and Progression
What are the progression routes for this qualification?
The BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Performing Arts is widely accepted and accredited by the great majority of universities as an excellent foundation for degree study. It also provides an invaluable foundation for vocational study.
As well as students studying the range of performing art subjects at many universities, over the past few years we have had students gain places at prestigious institutes such as RADA, Bristol Old Vic, Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, Lamda, GSA, East 15, Drama Centre, Mountview, Arts Ed, Birds, Performers, LABAN and London Contemporary Dance School
The futures for our students are bright and exciting and future careers for ClassAction practitioners are rich and diverse as we develop the theatre makers of the future.
ClassAction has an absolute commitment to nurture and guide each actor to discover and develop their individual and unique talents and skills to the fullest possible extent. The demands are real and the success of our training can be seen in the high achievements of our practitioners and their progression into higher level training.
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