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Performing Arts Level 3

Course code: P13100

Subject area: Performing Arts

Study level: School Leaver

Course level: 3

Course details

Course time:

09:00 - 17:00

Days of week:

Monday to Friday

Course date:

8th Sept 2025 - 2nd Jul 2027

Course location:

Abingdon Campus

Contact details

Phone:

01235 555 585

The Level 3 Diploma (1 year) and Extended Diploma (2 years) in Performing & Production Arts qualifications are designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills and understanding necessary to access and progress to degree level study or employment in the performing arts.
The course provides an opportunity for those who have an interest in the performing arts to explore, develop and test their creativity within a qualification structure which is stimulating, demanding and provides a supportive transition from general to more specialised study. Learners can select a specific pathway to focus on during their studies of either acting, dance or musical theatre.

This fast-paced course is based in our Dance Studios and our newly built Media TV Studio at our Abingdon campus. You will also perform in real world local venues to live paying audiences; recent venues have included the Didcot Cornerstone and the Oxford Old Fire Station. Not only will you perform in/produce shows, you will also be required to help create and organise particular elements, which will enhance your understanding of the overall arts administration and industry.

We are extremely passionate in ensuring that our training is preparing students for progression, developing them both personally and professionally and most importantly, building their confidence.

Each year you will work collaboratively with the entire department on your Final Major Project, which is a large scale performance. Previous performance pieces include, Sister Act, Legally Blonde, Grease, Fame, The Wedding Singer, 9-5 and many more!

With the option of pursuing a Musical Theatre, Dance or Acting focused pathway, you will be able to explore a range of skills and techniques to help prepare you for your future progression. Year 1 of study focuses on the development of all skills and explores a range of performance styles. Year 2 of study focuses on progression and supporting learners to prepare for auditions for Higher Education or exploring employment opportunities.

Course units
Level 3 Diploma (8 Units) (Year 1)Unit 1. Principles of performanceUnit 2. Engaging with an audienceUnit 3. Introduction to professional practiceUnit 4. Critical and contextual awarenessUnit 5. Production skills and contextUnit 6. Performance skills and contextUnit 7. Preparation for specialist studyUnit 8. Collaborative performance project

Level 3 Extended Diploma (13 Units) (Year 2)Unit 9. Developing performance and production skillsUnit 10. Preparing for progressionUnit 11. Exploration of specialist study and contextUnit 12 / 13. Final Major Performance

What next?
The course will develop many skills that you will be able to use in the world of work and can be a route towards a career in Theatre, Musical Theatre, Dance or Technical Theatre. This includes backstage, technical and administrative jobs, in addition to performance. The course also qualifies you for entry to university or drama school, and carries UCAS points. Year 2 students are given intensive support to help prepare for auditions.
Entry criteria
5 GCSES at Grade 4 including English or Maths, or a pass in the subject at Level 2 with a Grade 3/Level 2 Functional Skills in English and Maths.
Fee information
There is a course fee of £80.00 payable at enrolment which covers a kit and masterclasses. In addition, there will be various day trips offered throughout the year where payment will be taken seperately via WisePay.

In addition to the main course fees there is also an optional residential trip costing approx. £350 (cost given as guidance only.)

As part of your course we may organise trips to assist you with your learning. Trips are optional, and you will not be penalised if you choose not to participate.

There are bursaries available to help you with other course costs. Call 01235 216 212 for more information.

The rules on fee reduction are complicated and we would encourage you to talk to our Admissions staff on 01235 555 585 to discuss your options. You can find more information on our Fees and Bursaries page - search "Fees and Bursaries" at the top of the page.

Course fees

19+ Fee:

Tuition Fee: £8,208.00

Exam Fee: £0.00

Total Cost: £8,208.00

19+ Reduced Fee:

Tuition Fee: £0.00

Exam Fee: £0.00

Total Cost: £0.00

Qualifications received
Level 3 Diploma in Performing & Production Arts (Performing Arts) UCAS points (Pass/Merit/Distinction) - 36/60/84

Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing & Production Arts (Performing Arts) UCAS points (Pass/Merit/Distinction) - 72/120/168

Learning & method assessment
Units 1–7 of the Level 3 Diploma in Performing & Production Arts will be assessed and internally verified through students’ portfolios of evidence and are subject to UAL Awarding Body’s external quality assurance.
Unit 8, the final unit of the Level 3 Diploma in Performing & Production Arts and Units 12 and 13, the final units of the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing & Production Arts will be internally assessed, internally and externally moderated against the assessment and grading criteria for those units.