The Performing Arts course at BCA is a vibrant and immersive two-year programme combining acting, dance, and production elements. This UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma (equivalent to 3 A-levels) provides a well-rounded creative education, helping you develop technical skills, performance confidence, and a professional mindset. You’ll explore a wide range of disciplines — from tap, ballet, and Afro-fusion to screen acting, audition techniques, and set design — learning how to bring your unique creative voice to life.
Course Overview
The course also offers industry-led briefs, live performance opportunities, and real-world experience to help you apply your skills in professional contexts. With guidance from experienced tutors and access to industry-standard facilities, you’ll build the confidence, creativity, and connections to progress into careers in theatre, film, education, or production.
What You'll Learn
- Acting techniques and stagecraft for screen and theatre
- Singing, choreography and musical theatre performance
- Dance training in tap, jazz, Afro, ballet, and contemporary
- Audition preparation, voice training and confidence building
- Set, costume, and lighting design with industry-standard tools
- Collaborative and devised performance projects
- Critical and contextual studies in performance
- Marketing, event planning, and professional development
Gain valuable real-world experience by working on industry briefs, collaborative projects, and professional assessments developed in partnership with established theatre organisations and practitioners.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LDEihGv2qkg
COURSE VIDEO & CAREER PATHS
Stage or screen actor
Drama therapist or arts educator
Dancer or choreographer
producer OR stage manager
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 Distinction grade is equivalent to up to 168 UCAS tariff points, providing an excellent 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
Our Level 3 Dance learners took to the stage for their final showcase, delivering dynamic performances that highlighted their growth, creativity, and technical skill developed throughout the year.
Alumni Stories
“Former BCE Performing Arts learner Shea is a freelance Afro dancer currently showcasing her talent at the prestigious Move It Championships. Her performances highlight her distinctive style, rhythm, and creativity, gaining attention from audiences and industry professionals.”
Watch a featured performance here
Develop talent Transform Lives Create Careers
Train like a professional and take your first steps into the creative industry with Performing Arts 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.