Qualification: BTEC (EdExcel) Higher National Diploma Performing Arts
JACS Code: 034W, Institution Code: W65

Level: Level 5

Mode: Full-time

Start Date: September 2013

The course is delivered by enthusiastic staff with industry experience. It is divided into core and optional units covering all aspects of performing arts from research, performance and production to professional practice and management. Throughout the course you will develop skills in acting, dance and singing.

The course is structured around three areas of study:

• Performance work: in our studio theatre, on tour and in small theatre venues
• Knowledge: independent and group research in the history of contemporary theatre, how theatre companies work, copyright and health and safety
• Skills: including acting technique, movement for actors, voice, singing and dance, and basic stage design.

You will study units such as:

Year 1 

• Historical studies
• Research
• Small business management in the arts
• Process and production
• Acting methods and styles – general
• Singing
• Writing for performance
• Contemporary dance techniques
• Jazz dance techniques
• Technical production skills

In both Year 1 and Year 2 you will study:

• Acting methods – naturalism
• Devising performance
• Small scale touring

Year 2

• Contemporary studies
• Professional practice
• Project realisation
• Plus other units.

You will use our Endeavour Theatre and dance and performance studios with a rehearsal room and costume department.

You will be involved in community project work with local theatre companies, setting up and running productions in-house, in the community and on tour.

Recent projects have included performances with the Rambert Dance Company and the Lyric Theatre Hammersmith, theatrical radio productions, and writing projects with the Donmar Warehouse resulting in a professional performance of the students’ work.

There are regular trips to visit performances in London and at local arts centres.