Extended Diploma

The Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing & Production Arts (Acting, Dance & Musical Theatre) is a challenging course focussing on building the relevant skills, knowledge and experience necessary to succeed in the performing arts industry today. The Level 3 Diploma in Performing & Production Arts (Year 1) is designed to give students the practical skills and knowledge to progress to the Level 3 Extended Diploma (Year 2) and then on to degree level study, at university, drama school, specialist dance college or employment in this exciting and vibrant industry.

Throughout the course students cover a variety of aspects of the three disciplines including: devised and scripted drama, ensemble singing, solo performance, contemporary and street dance, musical theatre history and musical theatre performance. All of our Performing Arts students benefit from theatre visits, attending workshops and performing both devised and scripted shows in the college theatre.

The Level 3 Extended Diploma consists of 12 units. Students study 8 units in the 1st year and 4 units in the 2nd year. Units 1-7 are formatively assessed to a Pass level. Unit 8 is summatively assessed to a Pass/Merit/Distinction and denotes the overall grade for the Diploma. In the 2nd year, Units 8-11 are formatively assessed to a Pass level. Unit 12 is summatively assessed to a Pass/Merit/Distinction and denotes the overall grade for the Extended Diploma. The 1st year Diploma course carries the following UCAS points: Pass/Merit/Distinction – 36/60/84 and the 2nd year Extended Diploma is: Pass/Merit/Distinction – 72/120/168. The Level 3 Extended Diploma provides an opportunity for those who have an interest in the performing arts to work both independently and collaboratively with their peers to explore, develop and test their creativity within a qualification structure which is both stimulating and demanding.

We want you to achieve to the very best of your ability at CRC. To make this happen we offer both learning and personal support by specialist staff tailored to meet your specific needs.

Coursework is continually assessed by a range of differentiated methods which may include practical performances, logbooks, vivas (oral exam), essays, research presentations and more. There is regular one to one tutorial provision.

You should be at least 16 years of age. A minimum of 4 GCSEs at grades 9 - 4 (A* - C) including English or Maths and one of which should be in a Performing Arts related subject or a UAL Level 2 Diploma in Performing and Production Arts, a BTEC Level 2 Diploma or a BTEC First Diploma. GCSEs in English Language, Maths & Performing Arts at grade 4 (C) or above are highly desirable. You might wish to take the opportunity to demonstrate your performance at a Welcome Event/interview.

In addition to the entry qualifications listed, the offer of a place on the course is subject to the outcomes of initial assessment, which will be taken at the college as part of the admissions process. Entry criteria are given as a guide, and the exact requirements in order to obtain a place on a particular course will be confirmed following attendance at a Welcome Event/interview. Attendance at a Welcome Event/interview and at Taster Days is required as well as a good reference. In addition to the entry qualifications listed, the offer of a place on the course is subject to the outcomes of initial assessment, which will be taken at the College as part of the admissions process. Please note that entry criteria may vary quite significantly between courses at the same level. This is to take account of the specific skills needed for success on particular courses, the length of the course and the requirements for progression to the next level. Entry criteria are given as a guide, and the exact requirements in order to obtain a place on a particular course will be confirmed following attendance at a Welcome Event/Interview.

Progression to Higher Education: university, drama school or specialist dance college. Or, straight into employment, or an apprenticeship to develop your skills and experiences within performing arts or the wider creative industries.