BTEC Performing Arts

“Performing shows the passion more than talent. – Nietzsche (Philosopher and Critic)

 Kew House School is passionate about the creative arts and pupils are given plenty of opportunities within the curriculum as well as our varied enrichment programme to part of and take part in drama productions and music concerts. The BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate is for learners with an interest in performing arts who want to continue their education through applied learning, and who aim to progress to higher education. All of the content in the qualification will help prepare learners for further study. 

 The qualification is equivalent in size to one A Level and is designed to occupy one-third of a typical study programme, which could include other vocational or academic qualifications, such as further BTEC Nationals or A Levels. This qualification gives a broad introduction to the performing arts sector with an emphasis on core knowledge and fundamental skills which are transferable across other sectors (including communication, presentation, physical and creative skills). 

Course content 

• Unit 1 – Investigating Practitioners’ Work: Learners investigate the work of performing arts practitioners and develop critical analysis skills and contextual understanding of how practitioners communicate themes in their work. 
• Unit 2 – Developing Skills and Techniques for Live Performance: Learners explore technical performance skills with a focus on developing skills and techniques in at least two performance styles. 
• Unit 3 – Group Performance Workshop (devising): Learners explore and integrate creative, physical and vocal skills and techniques, working collaboratively to create a performance in response to a given stimulus. 
• Unit 19 – Acting Styles: Learners develop acting methods by exploring different acting styles. They will apply techniques to the development, rehearsal and performance of their practical work. 

 Assessment 

Units are assessed using a grading scale of Distinction (D), Merit (M), Pass (P), Near Pass (N) and Unclassified (U). The qualification overall is graded using a scale of P to D*. Units 1 and 3 are externally set and assessed by Pearson. Two units are internally set and assessed by your teacher. Each unit contains assessed performances, presentations and extended writing under timed conditions (controlled assessment). 

Career opportunities 

In addition to the performing arts sector-specific content, this qualification provides learners with the opportunity to develop all-round performance skills and transferable skills such as: 

• Self-confidence 

• Self-presentation 

• Personal discipline 

• Time management and organisational skills  

 All of which are highly regarded by higher education and employers.