Performing Arts BTEC

Please note that applications to the sixth form close on Thursday 14th January 2027. If you wish to make an application after this date please contact the sixth form office at office@derehamsixthform.norfolk.sch.uk or call 01362 696884.

For more information about a place at Dereham Sixth Form College for September 2027, please visit the website - www.dsfc.org.uk

Course Instructions

Most students will choose the equivalent of 3 A Levels but in some circumstances a maximum of 4. These are subjects that will continue for the full two years. Select only one subject from each option block (choosing more than 1 course from the same block will delay your application as courses from each block are timetabled at the same time). All courses are equivalent to 1 A Level except where specified differently below.

Dereham Education & Soccer Academy Including BTEC Diploma in Sport (equivalent to three A Level subjects, no other subject choices required).

When choosing HSC Diploma, please be aware that this is taught over two blocks - B and C. Therefore you cannot choose another subject in either of these blocks.

If your choice of subjects are not available due to limitations of the blocks, please email us with the details: office@derehamsixthform.norfolk.sch.uk

This course centres on units that bridge the gap between creative practice and professional theory. Train hands-on across a range of performing arts disciplines to refine your technique, performance style and stage presence. Dive into critical analysis and contextual study to uncover how industry-leading artists and companies create landmark work.

Beyond performance, you will develop a powerful set of professional and academic skills that set you apart in higher education and the workplace. Build self-confidence, self-presentation, personal discipline, time management and strong organisational habits. Master essential higher-level study skills – including independent research, critical evaluation of sources, extended writing, and drawing evidence-based conclusions.

Mandatory Units

Investigating Practitioners’ Work

Developing Skills and Techniques for Live Performance

Group Performance Workshop

Optional Unit

The course will also consist of one further unit which will be chosen based on the student skill set in the group. There are a number of options including Interpreting classical text for performance, Acting styles, Improvisation and Movement in performance.

Minimum 44444 including 4 in English.

THE PEFORMANCE & CREATIVE ROUTE – focuses on stage, screen and live delivery

Professional Actor / Performer: portray characters across theatre, film, television and voiceover, using physical and vocal technique to bring scripts to life.

Dancer / Musical Theatre Performer: deliver high-level choreographed movement and vocal performances for stage productions, live tours and commercial media.

Stage / Assistant Director: collaborate with creative teams to shape artistic vision, guide performers and oversee the staging of live theatrical works.

THE PRODUCTION & MANAGEMENT ROUTE – focuses on operations, technical delivery & coordination

Stage / Production Manager: oversee back-of-house operations, schedule rehearsals and coordinate technical cues to ensure live performances run flawlessly.

Event & Festival Coordinator: plan, organise and execute large-scale live entertainment events, managing logistics, venues, budgets and artist schedules.

Arts Administrator / Producer: manage theatre companies and cultural venues, handling marketing, funding applications, budgeting and community outreach programmes.

THE APPLIED & EDUCATIONAL ROUTE – focuses on teaching, community impact & therapeutic practice

Performing Arts Educator: teach drama, dance or music in schools, colleges or private academic, inspiring the next generation of creative talent.

Community Arts Workshop Facilitator: run interactive creative workshops for youth groups, charities and local organisations to encourage social engagement and self-expression.

Dance / Movement Therapist: use creative arts and performance techniques in healthcare or therapeutic settings to support emotional wellbeing and personal growth.