Performing Arts (Acting Pathway)

Why study this course?
This course will provide you with a stimulating and challenging programme of study that will be both engaging and memorable, delivering the essential subject knowledge that you will need to progress successfully into further study or the world of work. You will undertake a substantial core of learning in the Higher National Certificate in year one, and can build on this in the Higher National Diploma, in year two with optional units linked to your specialist area of study. Content is continually refreshed so that it is closely aligned with professional body, employer and higher education needs. We provide a varied approach to assessment that supports progression and we offer assessment relevant to the local economy, thereby accommodating and enhancing different learning styles. We deliver a qualification designed to meet the needs and expectations of students aspiring to work in an international performing arts environment.

About the course
This exciting and dynamic full-time 2 year course has an emphasis on learning skills current to the performing arts industry with the aim of increasing your employability. It is a production-based course for students who wish to develop skills in the performing arts. The course is highly practical, but it also demands academic ability. We use Project Based Learning (PBL) approaches which give you industry relevant experiential learning. This will prepare you for employment within the broad spectrum of the performing arts field.

How will it make me more employable?
Pearson is committed to delivering learning that is rooted in the real world and to develop work-ready graduates with the professional skills and behaviours that employers need. The course will help learners develop a wide range of skills including, but not limited to:

Technical Skills
• Contextual Knowledge
• Ideas Generation and Development
• Performing Arts Industry Knowledge and Skills
• Professional Practice

Employability Skills
• Employability Skills
• Critical Thinking
• Emotional Intelligence
• Entrepreneurship
• Leadership
• Reflective Practice
• Decision Making
• Team Working

Where will it take me?
Employment- The specific vocational content of this course, along with access to a state-of-the-art theatre environment provide an invaluable pre-requisite to employment in all aspects of the creative arts industries. Previous students on this course have gained employment in technical theatre, teaching, and acting roles as well as establishing their own dance businesses.

Related Degree Programmes- Successful completion of an HND in Performing Arts can gain access to year 2 in many university degree programmes across the UK. Entry requirements and year of entry are subject to the University.

This course has partnerships with Queen’s University Belfast and the University of Sunderland whereby access to year two and three of the performing arts disciplines programmes can be gained with appropriate grades in particular subjects.