BTEC Performing Arts

PERFORMING ARTS

BTEC FIRST DIPLOMA
&
BTEC FIRST CERTIFICATE

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The Friary offers students the opportunity to further develop the skills and knowledge they have gained throughout Key Stage 3 Drama via either the BTEC First Diploma or the BTEC First Certificate in Performing Arts.

The Diploma is equivalent to 4 GCSE qualifications and the Certificate is equivalent to 2 GCSE qualifications. Both courses combine drama, dance and singing; with a focus on students extending their areas of expertise, but also exploring performance areas that are outside of their ‘comfort-zone.’

The course is taught through 6 units (Diploma) or 3 units (Certificate) of practical and theoretical work. The unit content is as follows:

Only Diploma students will study these units

Unit Title	Description	Date Taught
Understanding Drama	A practical exploration of different dramatic styles & genres. The unit includes 2 dramatic performances, including a visit to primary schools to perform for Year 6 pupils.	Year 10 Sept-April
Production Business	An investigation into the Performing Arts industry; focusing on finance, jobs, publicity and organisations.	Year 10 Jan - July
Performing Dance	A practical exploration of a huge range of dance styles (suitable for beginners & experts!) Involves 3 separate performances.	Year 10 & 11 Continuously
Contemporary Dance	A practical study of specific modern dance practitioners. Involves a number of short performances.	Year 10 & 11 Continuously
Production Process	An opportunity to create an original piece of theatre from scratch: including budgeting, publicity, auditioning & of course performing.	Year 11 Sept – Nov
Devising Plays	A practical exploration of how to go about creating original drama for performance. Involves a stage performance and recording a radio play.	Year 11 Nov - May

Whilst a majority of work completed in lessons is practically orientated, the course does require written evidence, as well as video diaries, sketches and photographic diaries as evidence of the work completed.

There are also opportunities for students who are interested in the technical aspects of the industry to explore sound, lighting, crewing and set design - but all will be expected to participate in practical performance-based activity.