Performing Arts Practice (Level 3 Extended Diploma)

Performing Arts Practice programmes develop skills to perform as well covering elements of the industry, technical theatre and production. Each site has its own emphasis. Epping is focused on acting. Redbridge covers acting, dance and physical theatre. Havering offers two pathways specialising in either acting or dance. The programme allows you to develop skills for traditional roles but also allows you to cover skills for recorded and digital work. The programmes are ideal to explore the kinds of performance or technical role that leads to your industry specialism.

The Performing Arts programmes are delivered in purpose-built theatre and dance studio spaces, designed to replicate both the stage and back-stage experiences of a working theatre. Students also have access to dedicated IT spaces for coursework. Our tutors all have relevant experience of industry, bringing a wide range of experience and expertise to the programmes.

As part of one of our working theatre companies you will take part in regular performances throughout the year, and you will get the opportunity for a lead role as part of your Final Major Project. On some projects you may be expected to adopt a formal industry role. You are encouraged to consider what kind of industry role you might adopt after college or University or consider your own performance-related business venture.

Course Content

Your work is continuously assessed, so NO exams! This course is equivalent to 3 full A levels, although students can choose to take Year 1 only. Focus on developing creative skills, developing own creative practice, working towards a self-devised Final Major Project (FMP) at the end of each year. Highly practical and progression focused all assessment is holistic, based on portfolios of work. Evidence is generated through practical projects, briefs, workshops and engagement with the performing arts industry; this prepares learners for progression to the performance industry through the development of portfolios and materials for progression.

Light-touch assessment regime - only 4 Units over the 2 year course:

• Performing arts skills development (year 1)
  • Exploring performance styles
  • Creating performance material
  • Performing for an audience
  • The performing arts industry (year 1)
  • Planning a career in the industry
• Personal performing arts profile (year 2)
  • Using development plans to refine skills
  • Producing a personal project
  • Using material for self-promotion and networking
• Collaborative performing arts project (year 2)
  • Undertaking a defined creative or administrative role
  • Using creative collaboration to develop a project
  • Producing a collaborative project

The programme encourages learners to continually revisit their approaches to making and understanding performing arts, refining their skills, adding complexity and exploring new contexts. At the same time assessment requirements are clearly delineated, this ensures that all learners are being consistently measured to national standards, facilitating progression to university and to employment in the performing arts industry. Key assessment themes for learners:

• development of performing arts skills
• management of projects
• self-analysis and reflection
• appreciation of the performing arts industry and their future role in it
• the ability to present themselves and their achievements effectively.