BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Performing Arts (Musical Theatre)
The course provides learners with a practical and investigative course based on technique and skills building in the three disciplines of singing, acting and dance. Embedded throughout is the theoretical contextual exploration of musical theatre practitioners and their work.
Why Choose This Course?
This course is for those who wish to develop their abilities as a ‘triple threat’ performer alongside a variety of other A Levels. You will be assessed through assignments that require you to rehearse and perform set repertoire and devise group performance pieces, whilst identifying technique, style, theme, and context. You will continually develop your ability to research, analyse and evaluate through written assignments and the development of logbooks. Assessment is through coursework-based projects and there is a controlled assessment in which you write an essay on chosen practitioners. The extended Certificate enables learners to gain the equivalent of an A Level, therefore it is an established pathway into a range of degrees.
Apply for this course
Start date: 08/09/2025
Top Course Highlights
Experienced Tutors
Industry-Standard Facilities
Modern Equipment
Industry Links
Learn from sector experts
You will be taught by staff with extensive experience who will advance your knowledge and skills.
Develop transferable employable skills
During your programme, you will develop personal and work-related skills which will help prepare you for full-time work, whether you decide to pursue Performing Arts after College, or not.
Enjoy professional surroundings
Our two theatre spaces are equipped with the latest industry-standard equipment and resources, managed by experienced technicians.
What Will I Learn?
You will learn and develop skills in the key areas of acting, singing and dancing, identifying how to choose, develop, edit and refine work through rehearsal whilst improving your communication skills and ability to work within a group. You will be required to study and investigate the historical context and influences of a range of practitioners, such as Bob Fosse and Stephen Sondheim and create devised group work from a set stimulus.
Units Covered
Year 1
- Investigating Practitioners
- Developing Skills and Techniques for Live Performance
Year 2
- Group Performance Workshop
- Musical Theatre Techniques
Where Will It Take Me?
Together with other A Levels, this course will be suitable for progression into Higher Education. The transferable skills developed on the course provide the skills for a range of progression. Students completing the course alongside other A Levels have gone on to study a range of degree subjects including Drama, Musical Theatre, Dance, Psychology, Teaching and Law.
You might find yourself able to go into employment in an area of the performing arts, whether it be as a trainee or Apprenticeship in backstage operations with a theatre company, front-of-house or teaching assistant.
Assessment Arrangements
Assessment is through assignments set to each of the 4 units over two years. With two or three assignments to each unit there is a thorough assessment process throughout the course. Credit is gained for practical skills and for the understanding of the subject as well as an understanding of the underpinning theory. There is one externally assessed unit in each year. With such a busy assessment schedule, you should be well-organised and be able to meet deadlines. Attendance is mandatory as the nature of the work requires you to work with others.
Entry Requirements
Four GCSEs at Grade 4 to include either English Language (or Literature) and/or Maths. A Level 2 Diploma at Merit in an appropriate subject can also be considered (plus GCSE English and/or Maths). You will also be asked to attend an interview in which you will perform an audition piece (monologue or song).
Meet the staff, tour the campus and find out about life as a student at one of the best colleges in the country.
What you could earn
Potential Salary
£54,734
Entry Level Salary
£10,979
Average Salary
£29,269
Annual openings in Cornwall
5
Potential Salary
£54,734
Entry Level Salary
£10,979
Average Salary
£29,269
Annual openings in Cornwall
1
Potential Salary
£54,734
Entry Level Salary
£10,979
Average Salary
£29,269
Annual openings in Cornwall
