School leaver

Start Date: Duration: Level: Study mode: Course Location: Course Type:
September 1 Year Level 2 Full-Time Bede Campus Full-time Vocational Apply Enquire

What’s it all about?

This program prepares you for the ever-evolving performing arts sector, tailored for those passionate about a future on stage or behind the scenes. You'll develop a versatile skill set across acting and dancing, challenging traditional roles to craft a dynamic performer ready for various industry demands. Through intensive practical training, theoretical studies, and real-world exposure, students gain confidence and critical skills. You'll engage with industry professionals and have opportunities to demonstrate your prowess in public performances and competitions, ensuring you're well-prepared to pursue advanced studies or jumpstart your career in the arts.

Although you may identify as an actor or dancer we want to blur these definitions. Creating a modern performer, strengthening your abilities as an actor and dancer. On our performing arts industry skills course we believe in strengthening these skills, allowing the performer to increase their confidence and open up their employability options. The industry is asking for versatile performers and we want to prepare our students to answer this call; whether that be through one of the prior-defined roles or something else entirely. You’ll learn to push yourself and find talents in areas you never expected.

You will need 2 GCSE's at grade 4 -9 including English Language.

Students will also be expected to participate in a two-week induction project, which is used to assess practical and academic ability. This is to determine the right course for the student.

Study level Cost Additional fees
16-18 Free Students are expected to wear a Performance department kit, which can be purchased online at http://www.totalsport.co.uk. Students who are eligible for a bursary would be able to use this towards purchasing the cost. Students will need to provide their own stationery to be prepared for theory classes and assignments. Students will also be given the opportunity to take part in external trips and workshops. These trips may incur a cost to be paid for by the student. Cost will depend on the nature and length of the visit.

A variety of teaching and learning methods will be used that encourage and facilitate students’ creative and artistic development. Methods used will encourage both independent and collaborative learning through use of practical workshops/rehearsals, self-directed study and group work and tutorials.

Furthermore, there will be course related companies and practitioners that will lead industry workshops. In addition to this, attendance of performances will be used to broaden learners’ concepts and practice.

Assessment is on-going. Verbal and written formative feedback are given at regular intervals. Assessment methods differ depending on the unit however typical assessment methods used may include: practical demonstrations and presentations, portfolios/reports, performances, events, reflective journals/online blogs and evaluations.

Individual or group projects for each unit will always culminate in public performance (when achievable). During your time studying with us, you will be introduced to numerous industry professionals.

Achieving a Grade 4 or above in GCSE Maths and English is important, but if you're not there yet, don’t worry! We provide supportive classes to help you meet these essential criteria. These subjects form the backbone of your educational toolkit, opening doors to further studies and exciting apprenticeships. Our sessions in Maths and English will equip you with the skills needed to thrive academically and professionally.

Placement opportunities are an integral part of our curriculum, designed to bridge the gap between academic studies and the professional world. These experiences enable students to apply theoretical knowledge to real workplace challenges, enhancing their academic learning with practical skills. Tailored to complement your studies, placements are offered in a range of industries, from innovative local startups to leading global corporations.
By actively participating in these structured and supportive environments, students not only observe but also contribute meaningfully to the workings of their chosen field. This hands-on approach boosts confidence and provides a competitive advantage in the job market. The insights and experience gained are often transformative, arming students with the necessary tools for a successful and dynamic career. These opportunities are crafted to ensure you emerge as a well-rounded professional, ready to make significant contributions in your future endeavours.

At Sunderland College our commitment to your future goes beyond the classroom. We are dedicated to providing you with real-world experiences and industry insights that will prepare you not just to enter, but to excel in your chosen field. Here’s how we connect you with the industry:

• Placement Opportunities: Dive into your future career with our hands-on placement opportunities. These are not just work experiences, but gateways to potential employment and invaluable learning. They’re a core part of our courses, offering you a chance to apply academic theories in real-world scenarios.
• Networking Events: Build your professional network early. Our placement and careers fairs are your chance to meet and impress potential employers. These events are designed to help you forge significant industry connections that can enhance your career prospects. Attend talks, engage in discussions, and explore apprenticeship opportunities with employers who are eager to meet fresh talent.
• Expert Insights: Stay ahead of the curve with talks from specialist speakers. These industry leaders share the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the field, giving you the inside track on what to expect and how to thrive.
• Skills Competitions: Showcase your abilities in our exciting skills competitions. Held throughout the academic year, these competitions are not just about winning – they are about learning, growing, and pushing your limits. They offer a fun, competitive environment to enhance what you learn in class and develop essential industry skills.

Modules you will study on this course include:

- Unit 1: Skills Development for the Performing Arts
- Unit 2: Professional Development
- Unit 3: Creative Interpretation
- Unit 4: Auditioning
- Unit 5: Preparing for a Performing Arts Production
- Unit 6: Performing Arts Production
- Unit 7: Responding to a Progression Opportunity

What’s next?

Upon completing this course, students are well-positioned to advance their studies with our Level 3 Performance (Theatre, Voice & Movement) qualification. Alternatively, they can enter the workforce, applying their developed skills in various roles within the creative industries, such as performance, stage management, or production. This seamless transition ensures every graduate is ready to shape their artistic future and make a significant impact in the arts community.

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93% of our students have progressed to employment, university or further study

(*Destination data, all students, 2023-24)

Why choose Sunderland College?

94% Overall pass rate for T Levels

2022-23

Top performing college group in the North East for student achievement

NARTS, 16-18 Students, 2024

98% of students said they had the freedom to express themselves

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