Performing Arts BTEC

Entry Requirements: Grade 5 or Lvl 2 Pass

Learners will study four units made up of mandatory and optional units.

The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Performing Arts is an engaging and practical qualification designed for learners who are interested in the performing arts sector alongside other fields of study. 

Equivalent in size to one A Level, it is made up of four units, of which three are mandatory and two are externally assessed. The mandatory content (83%) ensures a strong foundation of knowledge and skills, with a significant proportion (58%) assessed through external means. Learners will develop practical performance techniques across a range of disciplines as well as the ability to analyse and understand the work of key practitioners. 

This qualification provides excellent preparation for higher education courses, not only in performing arts but also across a wide variety of subjects, as it develops transferable skills such as self-confidence, communication, time management and independent learning. It also supports progression to careers within the creative industries or to other professional pathways where strong presentation and interpersonal skills are highly valued.

Career Paths for Performing Arts Alumni:

Students can go on to study a wide variety of academic and vocational courses in Higher Education with this qualification, and/or go into a wide variety of careers in which communication skills are important: business, management, media, law and education are all popular next steps following successful completion of the course. For further information, please speak with a member of the Drama Department at school, or check the specification on the OCR website.