Performing Arts (Technical Extended Certificate)

Applications Open: Applications are now open!

How to Apply: We don't accept applications through KentChoices - Please apply via Admissions+ using the link below:

https://leighacademylongfield.org.uk/post16/applying-for-post-16/

The Level 3 Extended Certificate is a performing arts industry qualification that equips learners with the skills, knowledge and understanding for entry to employment in the performing arts industry or progression to further study at a higher level. Learners will develop their performance skills in a variety of different settings, perform live and develop their understanding of contextual issues relating to acting, audience and the performing arts industry.

The Level 3 Performing Arts (OCR/ Cambridge) content is in 5 topics:

• Unit 1: Preparing to work in the performing arts sector (externally assessed)
• Unit 2: Proposal for a commissioning brief (externally assessed)
• Unit 3: Influential performance practice (externally assessed)
• Unit 4: Combined arts (internally assessed)
• Unit 8: Performing repertoire (internally assessed)

There are NO final exams for this course. Unit 1-3 are assessed externally and the controlled assessments are sat under controlled conditions. Unit 4 and Unit 8 are assessed internally and moderated by the exam board.

• Unit 1 Preparing to work in the performing arts sector (externally assessed) – audition-style unit in which candidates consolidate all content of the last 2 years to prepare a performance for a brief.
• Unit 2 Proposal for a commissioning brief (externally assessed) – in response to a brief, students prepare a pitch for a performance event
• Unit 3 Influential performance practice (externally assessed) – in response to an externally set statement, students prepare 2 alternative audition pieces, and carry out research on a chosen performing arts pracitioner.
• Unit 4 Combined arts (internally assessed) – students must demonstrate proficiency in TWO or more skills in this unit. They must develop these skills, documenting the process before performing for a live audience. This can be done collaboratively.
• Unit 8 Performing repertoire (internally assessed) – Students consolidate the skills developed throughout the two years in a performance of a repertoire. Students carry out research of a chosen practitioner and present these findings to their class.

You must meet the overall requirements for Leigh Academy Longfield's Sixth Form, and the requirements for this subject specifically. These can be found on our academy website:

https://leighacademylongfield.org.uk/post16/sixth-form-subjects/

Where can this course take you?

🎓 University

Take your talent to the stage, screen, and creative industries. Studying Performing Arts gives you practical, hands-on training across acting, dance, music, or technical production. Whether you want to study Drama, Musical Theatre, Performance Practice, or Stage Management, your real-world project work, commissioning briefs, and technique portfolios will set you up for success at leading universities and premier conservatoires.

💼 Apprenticeships

Step straight from the rehearsal room into professional production environments. Creative and live-events apprenticeships let you earn a wage and skip student debt while breaking into the entertainment sector. You’ll apply your skills in performance, technical stage management, lighting, sound, or arts administration directly inside theatres, production houses, and entertainment agencies - gaining hands-on professional experience alongside industry qualifications.

🚀 Careers

Perform, produce, and power live entertainment. The creative and cultural industries are a massive global force, and this vocational course equips you with the industry-standard training employers look for. Future careers range from Actor, Dancer, Musician, and Choreographer to Stage Manager, Lighting/Sound Operator, Theatre Director, and Arts Administrator - giving you the practical edge to build a vibrant career in the spotlight or behind the scenes.