Performing Arts Level 2


  • Start Date: 01/09/2025
  • Course is for: School Leaver
  • Course Length: 1 Year
  • Funding Support Funding Support:
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Want to learn more about the creative and performing arts industry but not sure which route to follow? This course provides a strong foundation in the performing arts and allows you to select a specialist pathway.

You can choose one specialist area to focus upon:

  • Performing Arts – where you’ll learn practical skills in singing, acting, stage management and musical theatre.
  • Dance – here you will develop your creative, technical and performance skills which are vital for progression.
  • Music Performance – develop practical skills in music performance, composition and production as well as event management.
  • Music Technology/DJ – you will be introduced to the recording studio, live sound, events management and DJing.

No matter which specialist area you choose,  you will work collaboratively with other students and build the necessary skills to succeed. You will organise and take part in performances for live audiences in our professional theatre and build your confidence as a creative.

Depending on the specialist area you choose, you will study the following units:

  • Vocal ensemble
  • Design
  • Sequencing
  • Drama
  • Enterprise
  • Industry
  • Performance Skills
  • Movement
  • Acting
  • Personal Social Development (PSD)

Throughout the course you will develop techniques necessary for employment in the industry. This course offers a great foundation across a selection of transferable skills, all of which are vital for studying at Level 3. It allows you time to develop your skill set, build confidence in a fun and relaxed but focussed environment

Required Entry Qualifications

The standard entry requirements for this course are as follows:

3 GCSE grade 4 or above (grade A*-C), including English and Maths

Applicants who do not meet all the course entry requirements, may still be considered. If you are not able to continue with your application to this course, an alternative course will be explored and further advice and guidance offered.

Continuous assessment using class based assignments and portfolio of evidence

You will be assessed throughout the course by means of practical projects that centre on performance and technical aspects of the creative industries.

Practical work and written research will be evaluated. Individual contributions during assessments will be continuously assessed throughout, as there are no formal examinations.

You will studying in world class professional facilities with teachers that are ambitious, talented and passionate about making your experience at college the very best it can be.

They have up to date industry experience to share with you and the energy and enthusiasm to help you to get where you need to be.

Real work experience is key to all of our courses.

You’ll take part in a work placement or work inspiration experience including performances and production events throughout the year. Projects will allow you to take the reins, personally steer the direction of your future and put what you have learnt into practice.

Our fantastic Baltic Campus is equipped with some of the best education facilities in the UK. And with industry standard rehearsal spaces and a custom built 200 capacity performance theatre, all our performance courses are well catered for.

Our facilities are recognised as being among the best in the country.

This is one of the reasons that we were chosen as a founder college of the National Skills Academy Creative and Cultural (NSACC), a national network of colleges, companies and venues around the country that aim to improve the skill level within the Creative Industries.

We were the only college in the region to be chosen for the network which includes the Royal Albert Hall and companies behind some of the world’s biggest music festivals.

Our status as a founder college means our students get exclusive opportunities such as:

  • Work experience behind the scenes at Leeds Festival
  • Workshop days and tours of venues such as the Royal Albert Hall

School Leaver Course Guide 2025/2026

View or download our course guide for 16-18 year olds.

Gateshead College School Leavers guide for 2025 - 2026