BTEC First Diploma in Performing Arts

:ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Age at entry: 16+

It is important that you have an interest in the subject area but not essential that you have studied drama or dance before. Entry to this course requires a good general education and is dependent on a successful audition (see below) and interview.

You will normally need to have one of the following:

• 4 GCSE Grade D or above
• A BTEC Foundation Certificate in a related subject
• Other related level 1 or 2 qualifications
• Related work experience

WHAT WILL THE INTERVIEW INVOLVE?

At the interview there will be a group warm up, some contact work, learn a short dance and monologues previously learnt prior to the audition. We are looking to see that you can work with other people, you can think on your feet and that you have tried to learn your lines.

WHO IS THE COURSE FOR?
The BTEC First Diploma is for students who require a general qualification in dance and drama. The course is practical/studio based but is supported by some classroom sessions. All assignments are based on activities of people working in the performing arts sector. Students will need to be passionate about the area and be willing to try new things and find out more about their specialist area.

WHAT WILL I LEARN?
Students learn to work together. They learn dance and drama skills as well as how to devise their own plays and choreograph dance pieces. Students also work on basic singing, develop musical theatre skills and learn about the performing arts as a business including research into the background to this area of work.

HOW WILL I LEARN?
Students will take dance classes in our purpose built dance studio. You will have drama workshops, see performances and visit theatres. There will also we some classroom based activity in order to equip students with knowledge of the art form and of the vocational opportunities beyond performance.

WHAT CAN THIS COURSE LEAD TO?
A BTEC First Diploma is equivalent to four GCSEs grades A*-E. Students gaining a First Diploma in Performing Arts will have access to a range of career and further education opportunities. Students could find work in creative, production and administrative areas of the arts and entertainment industry. Some students may choose to pursue their studies with the BTEC National Diploma in Performing Arts before progressing to study at degree level at a University. The skills learned on the course are essential for any employment and are especially relevant for work which involves dealing with the general public or where confidence is important.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Audition: Students will be asked to audition by taking part in a workshop. This is an important exercise to ensure that candidates are willing to participate and can work with other people. You do not need any particular performing arts skills for this and there is no need to prepare a speech or dance piece.

What do I need to buy? You will be required to visit the theatre three times (with discounted tickets) and have appropriate dance/workshop clothing. This is simply t-shirts and leggings/track suit bottoms.

The Units students currently take are as follows:

• Understanding Drama
• Musical Theatre
• Contemporary Dance (Technique Classes)
• Devised Theatre
• Production Project
• Performing Arts Business

What qualifications will I get?

In addition to the Diploma, students also gain a Key Skills qualification (level 1). They may also choose to take additional qualifications such as GSCE Maths or English.

Type of Study :: Course Duration :: Course reference number :: Start Date :: Tutorial Fees :: Material Fees :: Exam Fees
full time 1 year DEP77 September 2010 TBC TBC TBC