Performing Arts - BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate

Applications Open: 3 November 2025 at 9.00am

Applications Close: 31 January 2026 at 5.00pm

Entry Requirements: At least five GCSE's at grade 4 or above. In addition, you will need to achieve specific subject entry requirements for all subjects.

How to Apply - September 2026 entry

Applications will open on Applicaa on 3 November 2025. Please refer to our Course Guide which lists subjects available along with entry criteria - this can be found on our website under Sixth Form Admissions along with our Admissions Policy. Please note our Course Guide for 2025 entry is currently displayed, Course Guide for 2026 will be available shortly.

If you need advice on Sixth Form courses or completing an application, please email sixthformadmissions@sgschool.org.uk or phone 01892 527444.

When applying students MUST enter three subject choices PLUS a reserve - in preference order - one being first choice and four being the reserve.
Please do not enter a fifth choice. Please note some subjects cannot be studied together - these are indicated on the relevant subject page and also in the Course Guide.

Internal Applicants to Sixth Form (current St Gregory’s students)

Our current students will join a Sixth Form Taster Day in September 2025, this is an opportunity to experience Sixth Form subjects and lessons.

All students will receive ongoing support and guidance with the online application process through discussions with dedicated members of staff, subject leaders and members of the Sixth Form team. Students will also receive a session with an external Careers Advisor.

External Applicants to Sixth Form

External applicants will be required to submit their applications via Applicaa using the link provided on the school website on 3 November 2026.

External applicants will also need to complete a Sixth Form Supplementary Information Form (SIF) if they are Catholic or 'Looked After' children. This can be found on the school website under Learn/Sixth Form/Sixth Form Admissions - Supplementary Information Form 2025-26. This must be returned to sixthformadmissions@sgschool.org.uk by the closing date.

Prospective students may be invited into school for a meeting with the Sixth Form team.

The BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Performing Arts suits students who wish to act or perform. Equivalent to one A Level, it is ideal for anyone wishing to set foot on a stage in front of a live audience. It offers a specialist qualification that covers the key knowledge and practical skills required for a career as a professional actor.

There are opportunities for theatre visits/ trips/workshops with professional practitioners to inspire and give industry advice.

A great emphasis is on practical work, therefore commitment and collaboration are paramount; all students are expected to be fully dedicated to the discipline of rehearsal and performance.

There is a combination of internal and external marking and moderation. There is no final written exam as students will be continually assessed in supervised practical and written specified sessions relating to the relevant unit.

Independent study commitment:

Five hours per week minimum.

Students will complete four units of study outlined below. These consist of three mandatory units and one optional unit.

GCSE: 4 in Drama; 4 in English

Why study Performing Arts?

Performing Arts enhances creativity, confidence and competence when delivering performances to any given audience. The community spirit of teamwork and collaboration forms a large part of the course of study. Students will understand how performing arts has and still is reflecting the needs and desires of our communities whilst contributing to education and literacy.

Where can it lead?

BTEC in Performing Arts is a recognised subject for entrance to university or college. It is also valuable for careers in acting, design, directing, journalism, public relations and teaching.

What does it combine well with? Art, English, History, RE, Psychology, Creative Digital Media Production and Film Studies.