Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing Arts Practice
Mode of study | Vocational Full-time |
Duration | 2 Years |
Campus | London Road Campus |
Start date | 1 September 2025 |
Course code | FLR3PAM (2527) |
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Who is it for?
This course is for anybody with a desire to develop skills and knowledge in the fields of Acting, Dance & Musical Theatre. It is designed to reflect the demands of the performing arts industry and is geared towards preparing students for progression into Higher Education on our own HND programme, University places, further professional vocational training, or into employment. The College runs a HNC and a HND in Performing Arts which you can apply to join after successful completion of your course.
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Entry Requirements
A minimum of four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, preferably including English, or a Level 2 Diploma in Performing Arts or related area with a Merit. Students will also be expected to complete an audition ahead of starting this course.
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What does the course involve?
You will be given broad-based training enabling you to tackle a range of professional challenges. You will develop skills and creativity in musical theatre, acting, dance, movement, and voice, through assignment and production work. Practical work is supported by an understanding of the industry, its practitioners and performance theory.
There are opportunities to specialise in aspects of musical theatre, acting and dance. When we are preparing for a production, your timetable becomes a rehearsal schedule, and you will be required to attend evening performances.
You will undertake units that cover a range of the main performing arts disciplines:
- Singing techniques
- Musical theatre
- Acting techniques
- Dance styles
- Audition practice
- Self-promotion skills
- Employment planning and career opportunities.
All the units covered in this course enable you to work towards live performances.
When we are preparing for a production, a number of auditions take place, so your regular timetable becomes a rehearsal schedule, and you will be required to attend evening performances.
If you do not have a Grade 4 or higher in GCSE English and/or Maths, you will also have the opportunity to study them. When we are preparing for a production, a number of auditions take place, so your regular timetable becomes a rehearsal schedule, and you will be required to attend evening performances.
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How is the course assessed?
Work is assessed through unit assignments, including practical classwork, development of performance skills, written analysis and larger-scale performances which take place in Theatre Severn, the town’s professional venue. A sample of every unit is seen by an external moderator before final grades are confirmed.
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Additional Notes
On successful completion at Level 3 you can progress to the HNC at Shrewsbury Colleges Group or to other higher education institutions or universities to study degreelevel courses including joint honours or specialising in drama, musical theatre, dance or English and drama.
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Further Information
The course includes many performance opportunities and shows, guest performances and masterclasses.
Progress to higher education at Shrewsbury Colleges Group on the HNC in Performing Arts course.
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What do I do next?
You can apply online via the APPLY NOW button. You can also apply for a second, alternative programme of study such as A Levels via a separate application. If after reading this factsheet, you are still undecided about the course most suitable for you, please drop in to one of our Open Evenings, ring Admissions on 01743 653111 or email admissions@scg.ac.uk
Abbey Parton
Level 3 Diploma in Performing Arts
Previous school: The Telford Priory School
The end-of-year performance made me decide to come to Shrewsbury Colleges Group. I saw A Night at the Musicals two years ago and loved it. So it is amazing to now be in the performance. The tutor support is amazing and I’m hoping to take a gap year after college, before applying for drama school in London.
Luca Howells
Level 3 Performing Arts
Previous school: The Telford Priory
I have really enjoyed the course, especially getting involved in the pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk, where we were allowed to improve and add to the show. Playing Simple Simon was my first lead role and pantomime is such a fun genre to explore.
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