This two-year drama course is for aspiring actors, directors, and producers looking to develop their craft for theatre and TV. As a UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma (equivalent to 3 A-levels), it offers a strong creative foundation, building acting technique, confidence, and professionalism through practical training. You’ll study practitioners such as Stanislavski, Brecht, and Meisner, gaining experience in ensemble work, devising, and scripted performance.
Course Overview
Over the two years, you’ll refine your characterisation, voice, and movement while exploring diverse themes and styles. Guest workshops and Q&A sessions with industry professionals provide valuable insight, leading up to live showcases — including a final musical performance in front of talent scouts.
What You'll Learn
- Principles of performance
- Engaging with an audience
- Introduction to professional practice
- Performance skills and context
- Audition preparation, voice training, and confidence building
- Production skills and context using industry-standard tools
- Preparation for specialist study
- Critical and contextual awareness
You’ll also complete a work experience placement and take part in industry briefs and external assessments with theatre partners, giving you valuable professional insight and real-world performance experience.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LDEihGv2qkg
COURSE VIDEO & CAREER PATHS
Stage or screen actor
Set Designer or creative director
Dancer or choreographer
producer OR stage manager
Casting Director or writer
University Progression
Facilities
- A fully equipped dance studio featuring a sprung floor, ballet barres, and a state-of-the-art sound system designed for both group rehearsals and solo practice
- A professional theatre space with advanced lighting rigs, sound systems, and AV technology to support live performances and technical production training
- A flexible black box performance studio that allows students to experiment with staging, direction, and contemporary performance techniques in an adaptable environment
- Access to professional media studios for filming self-tapes, recording performances, and collaborating with students from other creative disciplines such as media and music production
Timetable & Qualifications
- 3-day college week
- Drama, dance, and performance sessions
- Weekly wellbeing sessions
- Careers and progression support
- GCSE English and Maths resits (if required)
This course leads to a UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing & Production Arts, a nationally recognised qualification equivalent to three A-levels. Achieving a Distinction carries up to 168 UCAS tariff points, providing a strong foundation for progression to university, drama school, or a professional career in the performing arts industry.
ENTRY CRITERIA
- 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English
- You must be under 19 on 1st September, or under 25 with an EHCP
- Experience or passion in dance, drama, or singing is desirable but not essential
Big Creative Academy has been officially rated Outstanding by OFSTED, reflecting its commitment to educational excellence. Inspectors highlighted the dedication and passion of staff, the use of innovative and engaging teaching methods, and a holistic approach to student development that supports both academic and personal growth.
Student Work
UAL Performing Arts students were invited to the Barbican to perform their devised play “The Code” as part of the Barbican Box project, showcasing their creativity and talent on a professional stage.
Alumni Stories
“Jaye Ersavas is a British actor and former Big Creative Education student. Represented by Creative Artists Management, he has appeared in film, TV, and theatre, including the BBC comedy series PRU, where he plays Halil. Known for his energetic performances and East London roots, Jaye continues to build a growing career in screen acting.”
Develop talent Transform Lives Create Careers
Train like a professional and take your first steps into a career in theatre and TV with a Drama course at BCE
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is this course free?
Yes! This course is free for students under the age of 19 on 1st September, or under 25 with an EHCP. There are no tuition fees, and all equipment, including access to professional studios, lighting, sound, and costumes, is provided at no cost.
What will I actually learn on the course?
You’ll develop a wide range of performance and production skills across acting, production, and theatre. Here’s what you’ll learn in detail:
- Acting Techniques – Learn how to prepare for stage and screen with classical and contemporary methods, including improvisation, characterisation, and physical theatre.
- Musical Theatre – Develop stage presence and collaborative performance skills through ensemble and solo practice.
- Production Skills – Get hands-on with lighting, set design, sound operation, and costume-making. Build confidence working backstage as well as on stage.
- Audition Prep & Self-Tapes – Learn how to audition in person and on camera. Practice self-tape creation and gain feedback from professionals.
- Creative Collaboration – Take part in group-devised pieces, cross-course performances, and real industry briefs led by partner organisations.
- Industry Knowledge – Learn how to build a creative career, market your work, and navigate the world of performance arts.
- Contextual Studies – Reflect on the social, cultural, and historical contexts that shape modern performance.
Do I need to have performance experience for the course?
No. We welcome students with any experience. You’ll be trained across all disciplines, but you don’t need to be an expert to start.
What productions have previous students done?
Last year students did a production of In the Heights, and previously Hamilton, Six, and The Greatest Showman.
What career options can this course lead to?
This course prepares you for careers in theatre, film, TV, education, and production. You could become an actor, director, writer, theatre technician, educator, or arts facilitator. It also prepares you for further study at top drama schools or universities, including the Central School of Speech and Drama, LAMDA, and international courses.
What’s the timetable like?
The course runs over 3 days per week and includes:
- Acting, performance and production training
- Practical and written performance-based assessments
- Wellbeing sessions and personal development
- Career progression and university prep
- GCSE Maths and English resits (if needed)
What are the entry requirements?
- 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English
- Must be under 19 on 1st September, or under 25 with an EHCP
- A background in performing arts is helpful but not essential — passion and potential matter most
What kind of equipment and spaces will I use?
You’ll train in a fully-equipped theatre with lighting rigs, sound desks, projectors, and production equipment. You’ll also have access to media rooms for self-taping and interdisciplinary projects.
What kind of trips or real-world experiences are included?
You’ll take part in guest-led workshops, theatre visits, and public performances. Highlights include collaborations with the National Theatre, Soho Theatre, and TV and film actors. You’ll get to see productions in West End theatres and perform for casting directors.
How does this course support wellbeing?
We embed wellbeing into every part of the course. Students are encouraged to be themselves in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. Weekly sessions focus on emotional health, resilience, confidence, and goal-setting — plus you’ll get personalised support from staff who genuinely care.
How will this course help me build a career?
You’ll create a portfolio of performances and production projects, build audition skills, and learn how to self-promote through marketing and collaboration. Industry briefs, external panels, and access to professional opportunities give you a head start in building a real future in the creative industries.