Level 2 Extended Certificate in Performing Arts

The Level 2 Intermediate Performing Arts course has been specifically designed for students aged 16 years or over wishing to study a creative subject plus GCSE English and Maths [if required], work experience, tutorial and personal and professional development. 

If you don’t already have a grade C [4] or above at GCSE in English and Maths, you’ll continue to study these elements which will form a significant part of your study programme. 

The Intermediate Performing Arts course is an ideal foundation, providing you with an understanding of performing arts through engagement with techniques, the work of practitioners, industry conventions and community projects. This leads to the application of practical and creative skills that transfer easily into the workplace. 

This qualification is suitable for students who: 

• wish to gain a Level 2 qualification to support further study in Further Education (FE) in Performing Arts 
• are studying in preparation for employment in performing arts
• wish to gain a Level 2 qualification to support further study in FE in any other sector or subject area

You will also have the opportunity to acquire essential knowledge and tools for the world of work by developing transferable skills such as planning, research and analysis, working with others and effective communication. 

Typically you will need a minimum of one GCSE at grade 4 (C) or above, ideally in a related subject. You should also have GCSE English and Maths grade 3 (D) or equivalent Functional Skills. 

Candidates will be invited to College for an interview and a screening test as part of the application process. You will need to demonstrate that you are interested in working within your chosen subject area and that you have good communication skills. It is also essential that you show a commitment to maintaining high standards of attendance and meeting deadlines. 

If you are a mature learner, we may be able to take your previous experience into consideration. Applicants will be interviewed and will undertake an initial assessment in English and Maths. 

In addition to the entry requirements above, you will also need to attend a full-day audition, where your practical skills and potential will be assessed. 

To embark on a vocation in the performing arts, you will need to have a broad knowledge and understanding of the industry and how it functions. Whether you want to be an actor, musical theatre performer or stage manager, you will need to know how the business works and operates. 

The Intermediate Performing Arts programme will introduce you to the organisations and roles in this rich and very diverse landscape. It will also enable you to contemplate your place in that landscape and the possibilities for a future career. 

You will explore the process of responding to a given brief in preparing and presenting a performance while working as a company. You will also take part in the developmental process of a performing arts production, including planning, rehearsing and performing. 

In regular workshops and classes, you will learn the importance of self-discipline and regular practice and ‘gain greater physical control’. You will begin to develop interpretative skills so that you can express a personal and unique artistic style. Throughout, you will learn how to review and monitor your own progress so that you can move forward with clear development plans into the next stage of your journey. 

This course will be delivered on-site.

You will need to provide suitable clothing and funds to attend mandatory theatre productions [approximately £25]. 

To achieve this qualification, you must complete a range of internally and externally assessed units. Methods of assessment include performances, rehearsal observations, practical workshops, reflective journals and evaluations. 

Qualifications are graded using a Pass, Merit, Distinction structure. 

Further Study

On successful completion of this programme to Merit or Distinction standard – as well as GCSE English and Maths to grade 4 [C] – you can progress to an advanced course such as the Advanced Performing Arts course, via application and portfolio interview. 

For more information, contact Derby College Group on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk