Course Overview
The Pearson Level 3 Extended Certificate in Performing Arts acting or musical theatre pathway is a practical and academic qualification designed for students who want to develop high level performance skills alongside industry knowledge. The qualification is equivalent in size and value to one A Level and is ideal for students who wish to combine it with other Level 3 courses as part of a full-time study programme.
Students will take part in a range of performance projects that develop acting technique, vocal and physical skills, rehearsal discipline, and professional working practices. Depending on the chosen pathway, learners will focus on acting for stage and screen or musical theatre performance, including singing, dance, and acting through song. Assessment is coursework based and includes practical performances workshops and reflective written tasks rather than formal exams.
The course supports progression to university, drama school, higher apprenticeships or employment within the creative industries. It also develops transferable skills such as communication, collaboration, time management, and confidence, making it a strong choice for students who want a creative qualification that carries the same weight as one A Level while offering a more hands on performance focused learning experience.
Topics may include:
- Acting techniques and performance skills for stage and screen
- Musical theatre performance including singing dance and acting through song
- Rehearsal processes and collaborative working practices
- Development of vocal physical and interpretative skills
- Understanding professional practice within the performing arts industry
- Reflective practice, evaluation and personal performance development.
Please note: this course may incur additional costs.
Assessment Methods
Assessment is mainly through practical and written assignments completed throughout the course. Learners are assessed on performance work rehearsal processes workshops and completed projects which are observed and assessed by tutors.
Written work includes reflective logs evaluations and supporting coursework that evidences creative decision making and personal development. Learners are encouraged to evaluate their own work and the work of others set personal targets and respond to feedback in order to improve their skills and professional practice. There are no formal written exams and assessment takes place continuously across the programme.
Progression Options
Successful completion of the Pearson Level 3 Extended Certificate in Performing Arts provides clear progression routes into higher education training or employment within the creative industries. Learners may progress to undergraduate degrees in acting, musical theatre, drama, or performing arts at university or conservatoire level including specialist drama schools. The qualification also supports progression into higher or degree apprenticeships within the creative and cultural sector.
Alternatively, students may move directly into employment or freelance work within theatre, musical theatre, film, television, education, or community arts. The transferable skills developed throughout the course including communication, collaboration, self discipline, and creative problem solving also support progression into related pathways.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can apply directly on any of the UCS College Group websites, whether you wish to study at Bridgwater College, Cannington College, Strode College, or Taunton College. Simply use our “Find a Course” feature and follow the on-screen instructions – be sure to have your important information to hand.
We aim to offer a careers service that is accessible to everyone. We will seek to equip all our students with the skills and knowledge that will enable them to operate confidently, effectively, and independently in life and work. All students have the opportunity to meet with a Careers Advisor for 1:1 career support.
The Student Experience Team can mentor and signpost students who are struggling with a range of issues that are negatively impacting their day-to-day life. The Student Experience Team works closely with the Safeguarding & Lifestyle Teams to promote proactive wellbeing enrichment sessions. The team can refer on to counselling when appropriate.
We provide top-quality workshops and teaching areas across our Colleges for subjects such as art, design and media, hair and beauty, catering, automotive engineering and construction. You can review our campus facilities by navigating to the “College Life” section of our websites.
For us, the success of our students always comes first. By investing in our built environment, we are investing in your future.
All of our students will have a personal tutor to support them with their academic progress and personal development. The tutorial programme consists of 1:1 support, group tutorials and guest speakers, plus targeted online resources which complement the UCS College Group Advantage scheme.
The Safeguarding Team can offer advice and guidance on anything that may be affecting your young person and their studies – no problem is too big or too small!
Please email our Safeguarding team at staysafe@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk. If you query is urgent, please come to the College Reception and ask to speak to a Safeguarding Officer.
If you cannot find an answer to your question in this FAQ section, you can ask us a question by visiting our Contact Us page.
