Production Arts The Technical Theatre Programme (2 x A level ) BTEC Level 3 Diploma Edexcel

Applications Open – 3rd November 2025

Applications Close – 31st July 2026

Entry Requirements –We do have entry recommendations for some courses, especially A-levels, as we would not want you to start a course that would not be suitable for you. We want to give you the best chance of future success.

The course programmes are flexible: students can mix Level 3 courses with Level 2 courses, or A-levels with BTECs. We provide impartial advice and guidance and seek to put you on the courses you want and are likely to be successful in.

Students are expected to study up to 3 A level equivalent subjects (this can be from either A levels and/or Level 3 BTEC subjects) building their own personalised combination of Level 3 subjects OR a full time Level 2 course.

The sixth form runs on a flexible timetable with some courses running until 6.00pm. This flexibility means we can offer as much as possible, to as many as possible, as often as possible.

How to Apply – Please apply via Kent Choices.

View our courses here

This course is designed to increase your knowledge of the many aspects of technical theatre. Thought there are timetabled lessons for theory on a weekly basis, the majority of the course is designed as an ‘apprenticeship’ which sees you being on call to support the many events, assemblies, shows and external bookings held at the Canterbury Academy.

BTEC theatre production entirely consists of a substantial portfolio of evidence (coursework) made up of studying 12 units over two years. A very ‘hands on’ vocational course, much of the learning will happen not in the classroom but ‘in situ’ as you learn about, prepare for, and operate the ever-growing number of public performances offered each year by the Canterbury Academy and the Canterbury Institute for Performing Arts.

Though classroom delivery may only happen on select days in the week, your attendance will be required most days – and every day during busy production times – to practice your skills in live performance situations (assemblies, concerts, guest speakers, guest performances and bands, and more).

Teaching and assessment

There will be one two-hour theory session three days per week, where you will be learning about the machinery, technology and theory behind all aspects of technical theatre. Your assessments are almost wholly practical, and are tied to large-scale live performances such as our Christmas Cabaret, Summer Show at the Gulbenkian Theatre, and shows within our own Black Hole Theatre.

Programme Details:

An idea of the units that will be studied in the first year are listed below.

• Stage lighting operations

• Stage lighting design

• Production arts planning

• Stage sound operations

• Stage sound design

We would recommend a GCSE grade 4 in drama/music/dance/performing arts and a keen interest in working within the industry, as well as a successful audition into Canterbury Institute of Performing Arts.

Students will be required to choose one further subject to study alongside as this subject is two A level equivalent.

The Technical Theatre Programme will give you a wide knowledge base to help you choose a suitable career path in the theatre industry. You will be working with professionals from the industry who will give first hand advice and insight.

Should you achieve the appropriate grades, this course will enable you to move on to higher education at university or drama school.