BTEC Extended Diploma Production Arts Full Level 3

Suitable For

This course is ideal for you if you are interested in a career behind the scenes in the theatre or events industry. The course will broaden understanding of technical production skills and give an insight into the different career paths that are open to you. You will have the opportunity to gain real production experience by working with local theatre companies and production houses on their premises, as well as on in-house shows and events, providing valuable opportunities of real work experience which will be really valuable to future employment.

We also offer a L3 Diploma (equivalent to 2 A levels) and a L3 Subsidiary Diploma (equivalent to 1 A level) in this subject. The course content is similar to that of the Extended Diploma but there are fewer units to complete.

Course Content

The BTEC Extended Diploma Level 3 is a nationally recognised qualification that is equivalent to 3 A Levels and therefore provides a natural stepping stone to courses in higher education and employment. The structure of the course allows you to specialise in the areas which interest you most, such as stage lighting, sound or stage management. Projects enable you to build skills through workshops and preparation for a series of performances. You will be involved in preparing sets, props and costumes, designing lighting effects and planning front of house tasks to support productions performed by other groups in the college and local community. Typical productions include Pantomime, straight drama, musicals, live music gigs, art installations, exhibition and event design.

Theoretical understanding of the performing arts business and its history is integrated into practical work. There is an emphasis on working as part of a group as well as developing individual skills and disciplines.

Assessment Method

Practical assignments, professional practice, performances and portfolio.

Progression

On successful completion of the course there will be opportunities to continue onto higher education courses at University or to go into employment within the industry. Currently there is a shortage nationally of suitably qualified and experienced people able to work in the field of live events and technical production.

Additional Information

If you are studying on a BTEC programme at college then you will also be required to attend a 1 or 2 hour Functional Skills session and a 1 hour Tutorial session per week. This will give you opportunities to develop and enhance your personal, communication and academic skills, which can then be applied to a wide range of subjects and to areas of employment.

Equipment and Costs In order to be able to study on this course you will need appropriate clothing, black tops and trousers for all practical work. Clothing with the college and performing arts logo on is available to order through the Art shop within the Arts Centre, which also stocks a range of art materials and equipment at competitive prices. To comply with Health & Safety regulations you will need to wear shoes/boots with steel toe caps. Other safety equipment and clothing will be required during course activities.

Educational Visits During the course you will be required to attend a number of day visits to theatres, arts centres, other colleges, universities and, on occasions, residential visits. There will be a cost involved in these visits with the average being around £20 per visit.

Entry Requirements

5 GCSEs (Grade C or above, it is recommended that one is GCSE English), a relevant Level 2 Diploma with at least a MERIT profile or an appropriate equivalent.