The extended certificate is for students who are interested in learning about the performing arts sector alongside other fields of study, with a view to progressing to a wide range of higher education courses, not necessarily in performing arts.

It is designed to be taken as part of a programme of study that includes other appropriate BTEC Nationals or A Levels, and is equivalent to one A Level.

Future Opportunities

BTEC Nationals are widely recognised by higher education and the industry of performing arts as a signature vocational qualification. They provide progress to a higher level of study or work placements within the performing arts sector.

What are the entry requirements?

Students applying for the course should have either a background in performance, as either an actor, singer or dancer, or they could have studied GCSE Drama, Dance, or have a BTEC Tech Award Level 1 or Level 2 in Acting, Dance or Performing Arts. 

If you have not previously studied these subjects at Key Stage 4, you could have been part of a performance group, youth theatre company, dance group, musical theatre group or choir in previous years. Students will be required to perform as part of the course. If you have no previous experience, you will be required to audition for a place on the course.

What will I study?

The course is made up of four units, of which three are mandatory and two are externally assessed.

How will I be assessed?

Dependent on the unit completed, assessment will be external through set tasks or assessed performances, or internal with tasks completed and marked internally.