Full Time First Diploma in Performing Arts

First Diploma in Performing Arts

What will I be learning?

The BTEC First Diploma is equivalent to four GCSEs grades A* - C depending on overall achievement and is a full time course. It covers the three main elements of performing arts: acting, music and dance. You will be taught by our specialist staff through highly practical and challenging classes that focus on developing your skills to enable you to perform to your full potential and progress onto employment or further training.

You will cover six units in total which include: Performing Arts Production Process, The Performing Arts Business, Acting and Musical Theatre. Alongside this you will also cover Level 1 Key Skills.

As the course is equal to four GCSEs grades A* - C, there is an academic element to the course which is integrated into all assignments. Performer's logbooks, verbal presentations, reflective evaluations, research reports and discussions will be forms of assessment for this aspect of work. This is an important area of the course enabling you to be reflective and analytical of your own and others work.

How will I learn?

Each class will have an assignment brief associated with it which will provide you with clear aims and outcomes for the project and specific grading criteria to help you focus and develop your work. You will then be awarded a pass, merit or distinction grade for each criterion. You may be assessed through integrated assignments, where more than one unit is assessed at the same time, for example, you may cover Devising and Acting at the same time.

You will learn mainly through practical activities, workshops and regular, informal performance sharing with your peers; but you will also be assessed through written or verbal assignment work. Visiting practitioners and trips away form part of the curriculum as well as at least one public performance per year.

Our fully equipped theatre and studios enhance the learning experience, allowing you to work in a professional environment.

What else might I want to know?

You will be required to have a set of 'blacks' for performance work and wear appropriate clothing for practical classes (i.e. no jewellery, loose & comfortable clothing). You will have the opportunity to work with outside agencies and professionals. Educational residential trips and visits also form an important part of our courses.

There is a Fifty Pounds materials fee, payable at enrolment. You can apply for funding to help with this cost if appropriate.

What can I do afterwards?

The First Diploma is a nationally recognised one-year qualification which prepares you for progression onto the National Diploma in Performing Arts or a similar course but does not guarantee you a place. Depending on your final achievement grade it is equivalent to four GCSEs between A* - C grade.

Apply for this course
You can apply online , by phone, post or in person.

Course Code: FD2PFA1F