BTEC NATIONAL DIPLOMA IN PERFORMING ARTS (ACTING)

WHAT IS THE PERFORMING ARTS BTEC?

The BTEC National Diploma is a practical, work related course. You learn by completing projects and assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations, activities and demands. As well as learning about the employment area you have chosen, you develop the skills you need to start a career.

WHY SHOULD I STUDY THE PERFORMING ARTS BTEC?

It’s the equivalent to three A’ Levels which means when you’ve finished the course you can choose whether to get a job straight away or go into Higher Education.

USEFUL SKILLS & INTERESTS

• A natural level of ability in acting, design or technical theatre where we can develop your existing skills in these areas
• The ability to keep ongoing, accurate and evaluative records of practical work
• The confidence to read aloud in front of large groups
• The confidence to participate in group practical work

COURSE STRUCTURE & CONTENT

The course is made up of eighteen units, nine in each year. In the first year you will study some of the following units:

• Performance Workshop
• Devising
• Contemporary Theatre
• Script Writing
• Historical Context of Performance
• Acting auditions
• Performing arts business
• Variety performance
• Drama improvisation

In the second year of the course the units you may study are as follows:

• Rehearsing for performance
• Performing to an audience
• Developing voice for the actor
• Theatre in education
• Classical theatre performance
• The practice of directing theatre
• Arts in the community
• Working freelance

We are also aiming to include some dance and singing units in our course content in the coming year.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?

All units are assessed and graded and an overall grade for the qualification is awarded. The grades that can be achieved are Pass, Merit or Distinction (Equivalent to 3 A’s at A level)

COURSE COMMITMENT

You are expected to wear appropriate clothing – dark colours, which allow freedom of movement, sensible footwear and no jewellery (for health and safety reasons). You will also be expected to be involved in the course way beyond your timetabled lessons when performing, rehearsing and going on trips, so you must be prepared to work beyond the normal college hours.

ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS

You will need to have at least one of the following;

• A BTEC First Certificate or Diploma in a related subject
• At least 5 GCSE’s at grade A* - C
• Appropriate performance related experience

You will have to take part in an audition process to join this course

PROGRESSION ROUTES

BTEC National Diplomas are valued by employers and higher education.

If you’re looking at going on to University or College you could take a degree in

• Performing Arts
• Performance Design and Management
• Media Performance
• Drama/Stage Schools (Degree or Diploma)
• Teaching

If you’re looking at going straight into employment, you could go into

• Performance support
• Administration for performance
• Workshop leadership and support
• Performance Work
• Work in Theatres such as Box Office or Stage Management
• Freelance specialist

FURTHER INFORMATION

Full course specifications can be found at www.pursglove.ac.uk

If you require further information please contact Graham Wright, the Assistant Department Manager.