This is a unit-based qualification with assessment points throughout the year. The Diploma is the first component of a full Extended Diploma which is completed over 2 years. It is a practical based course that focuses on technique and performance.
The course is broken up into units which will be allocated to various projects throughout the year. Some projects involve just one unit, but some will involve you working on several at the same time.
The units you will cover include:
- Principles of Performance
- Engaging with an Audience
- Introduction to Professional Practice
- Critical and Contextual Awareness
- Production Skills and Context
- Performance Skills and Context
- Preparation for Specialist Study
- Collaborative Performance Project.
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Entry requirements
5 GCSEs grade 9-4 (grade C and above) preferably including both English and Maths or a relevant Level 2 qualification at Merit or above. You will be invited to an audition and interview.
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Who is the course for?
If you're passionate about acting and performing arts, this course is for you. You will develop skills as a performer and will gain the qualifications necessary to enter higher education or work in the industry.
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Study methods
The course is run as an intensive vocational introduction to acting, performing arts and production. It is made up of a series of performance projects. You will work as a theatre company. All company members get the opportunity to work on production elements such as set or playwriting. During the course you have a chance to work with visiting professional practitioners and undertake a range of trips to support your studies.
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How is the course assessed?
At the end of the first year you will have your progress reviewed to ascertain your suitability for completing the qualification. The qualification is assessed over 18 units over 2 years (a combination of written work, workshops and performance). The course is continually assessed. Some projects are student and staff assessed on criteria set out at the start of the project and some units are externally assessed. You must attend regularly and punctually, achieving at least a pass to achieve the qualification. Students are awarded pass, merit or distinction, according to their achievement.
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Where Next – Job Opportunities
Some students have gone to work in the industry immediately after finishing their studies, into the theatre, musical theatre or signing with an agent. Some of our past students have gone on to star in the film Dunkirk, and Black Mirror, BBC Great Expectations, Roots (Hollywood remake), won a Bafta for the film Small Axe, work as a casting director in Hollywood, a stage manager at Aylesbury Waterside theatre and starred as Cleopatra in Queen Cleopatra on Netflix who has won an award presented by the British National Film Council.
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Where Next – Further Studies
Many of our students have successfully continued their studies in at drama schools, music conservatoires and universities, including Central School of Speech and Drama, East 15 Acting School, Guildford School of Acting, Guildhall School of Music and Drama, Bristol, Manchester, Rose Bruford and Royal Holloway.
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How to apply
To apply for a course either click the APPLY NOW button - fill out the form online and submit
OR download an application form here and post it to the address on the form.
When we have received your application we will contact you to arrange an interview time.
