BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Performing Arts Practice

Equivalent to 3 A Levels

Up to 24 hours of contact time every week, plus additional opportunities too

Specification

BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts Specification 

The Course

This exciting and immersive two-year programme is designed for aspiring performers who are ready to develop their skills, creativity and understanding of the performing arts industry.

The BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Performing Arts Practice combines practical training, live performance opportunities and industry-focused learning to prepare students for progression into higher education, vocational training or employment within the creative industries.

Students will train across a range of disciplines including:

• Acting
• Dance
• Musical Theatre
• Singing
• Performance Creation
• Collaborative Performance Projects
• Industry Skills and Professional Practice

At LEAF Studio Sixth Form, students benefit from intensive practical training alongside academic and professional development, receiving substantial contact time and access to our wider specialist Performing Arts programme.

The course is fully funded, ensuring financial barriers do not stand in the way of pursuing your passion and future career ambitions.

You will become part of a vibrant, creative community of performers, working alongside experienced teachers, industry professionals and like-minded students who share your commitment to the arts.

Alongside your BTEC qualification, students have access to our wider specialist Performing Arts training programme and enrichment opportunities.

Training opportunities include:

Students also have access to our VD and IP programme, supporting additional vocational development and individual progression pathways.

Subjects of Study

Throughout the course students undertake a range of practical and industry-focused projects designed to develop performance, creativity and employability skills.

Areas of study include:

• Exploring Performance Styles
• Creating Performance Material
• Performing to a Live Audience
• Planning a Career in the Industry
• Producing a Personal Project
• Using Material for Self-Promotion and Networking
• Undertaking a Defined Creative or Administrative Role
• Collaborating to Develop a Project

Students also develop:

• Rehearsal and performance techniques
• Professional working practices
• Reflection and evaluation skills
• Project planning and organisation
• Communication and teamwork
• Creative problem solving
• Industry awareness and employability skills

Practical Learning & Industry Experience

This programme is designed around practical projects and vocational learning.

Students regularly:

• Create and perform original work
• Respond to live industry-style briefs
• Develop rehearsal and collaborative skills
• Build a professional portfolio
• Perform to a range of audiences
• Explore practitioner influences and performance styles
• Work in creative teams and production environments
• Develop self-promotion and networking skills

Learning mirrors the expectations of modern industry and higher education, giving students authentic experiences throughout their studies.

Performance Opportunities

Students have opportunities to perform throughout the year both in-house and externally.

Performance opportunities may include:

• Annual Musical & Summer Showcase at Lighthouse, Poole
• Move It Convention & CYD?
• Intimate Vocal Evenings
• In-house productions and showcases
• Community performances
• Corporate events
• Local care homes and adult learning centres
• Termly performance assessments
• Workshops and masterclasses

Students regularly perform in professional venues and gain experience performing to varied audiences.

Where Next?

This qualification is equivalent to three A Levels and carries UCAS points.

Students may progress onto:

Higher Education & Training

• Drama School or Conservatoire training
• Specialist universities
• Performance degrees
• Acting degrees
• Musical Theatre courses
• Dance degrees
• Teacher training pathways
• BTEC Higher Nationals

Careers

• Performer
• Actor
• Musical Theatre Performer
• Dancer
• Choreographer
• Creative Practitioner
• Arts Administration
• Teaching and Coaching
• Community Arts
• Wider creative industries

The qualification is designed to develop the transferable skills highly valued by employers and universities including teamwork, communication, independent learning and project management.

Why LEAF Studio Sixth Form for Performing Arts?

• Large amounts of specialist contact time
• Intensive practical training programme
• Fully funded study programme
• Workshops and auditions with leading vocational colleges and universities
• Extensive performance opportunities throughout the year
• Access to industry professionals and guest practitioners
• Perform at national events and conventions
• Award-winning teaching staff
• Strong alumni progression record
• Regular theatre visits and educational trips
• Support with auditions, applications and career pathways

Unlock your creativity, build your confidence and take your first step towards a future in the performing arts