This course will be offered at The Whitehaven Academy. Transport will be provided from Workington Academy for students wishing to study this course.

Examination Board

BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Performing Arts = (1 A-Level)

Entry Criteria

A level 2 Merit in BTEC Performing Arts or a grade 5 in GCSE Dance/Drama/Performing Arts.

If no previous experience: a grade 4 or above in English at GCSE level and evidence of relevant experience and participation in dance/musical theatre classes/performances.

Assessment

Although the BTEC National Award course has different grading criteria the overall qualification is equivalent to that of an A level.

Pass = E     Merit = C      Distinction = A       Distinction* = A*

Units 1 and 2 are assessed by external exams, the other units are assessed via coursework.

Why you should study Performing Arts

Performing Arts contributes to the national economy with over 137,250 jobs currently in the UK and is very popular among young people. This is a fantastic opportunity to study this discipline. Students who have already studied Performing Arts at Key Stage 4 will find many of the ideas and concepts are expanded upon in the course.  However, the study of the above courses is not an essential requirement, students without this background will be able to develop their skills without prior knowledge, but some practical experience in school or extra-curricular would be advantageous. This vocational course gives a great insight into the Performing Arts ‘working’ world, the roles and responsibilities and opportunities in the sector and is designed to be studied alongside other A-Level/BTEC options.

Course Content

Course Content

Mandatory units

Units: Guided Learning Hours Assessment type
1. Investigating practitioners work

 

 90 External

 
2. Developing skills and techniques for live performance: Contemporary and Jazz Dance/Musical Theatre

 

 90

 

 Internal
3. Group performance workshop 120 Internal

 

 

Optional units (One of which need to be studied)

Unit Guided Learning Hours Assessment type
Unit 22 Movement in Performance 60 Optional Internal

 

External assessment will account for 83% of the qualification and the mandatory units account for 58%.

Skills Developed, Progression and Possible Future Careers

Like the A level equivalent course this is an accepted qualification for entry into higher education, to follow courses such as:-

Performing Arts                                   Drama

Dance                                                 Musical Theatre

Undergraduate Teaching Course       Performance for Live and recorded media

 

Likewise, employment in teaching, theatre work and freelance performing or teaching can be a natural progression.