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Level 3 Extended Diploma Performing and Production Arts (Dance)

SCC PFA 0326 025

Location

Southend city college

Applicant Type

School Leavers

Level

Level 3

Subject

Performing Arts

University of the Arts London Logo 2026

Course Overview

The Performing and Production Arts (Dance) Level 3 Extended Diploma supports you to develop advanced dance skills and professional awareness for progression within the performing arts industry. It is suitable if you have a strong interest in dance and want to pursue further education or a career in dance‑related fields. 

Throughout the course, learning is vocationally led through a wide range of performance projects. You will specialise in dance and become a member of Dimensions Dance Company, working collaboratively in a professional performance environment. This approach helps you build confidence, discipline and experience that reflect industry expectations. 

You will train across a variety of dance styles, including classical ballet, jazz, tap, heels, contemporary and commercial dance. Learning also focuses on body conditioning, choreography and rehearsal techniques, helping you develop strength, versatility and performance quality. Rehearsal etiquette and performance skills are embedded throughout, supporting your readiness for live performance settings. 

  • In Year One, we build foundations in general dance technique and performance as well as allowing students to explore choreography through a solo dance for camera project.
  • In Year Two, we focus on progression preparation. Students will have additional audition preparation classes, weekly singing and acting sessions as well as support with UCAS applications and progression routes.

Throughout the course, you will benefit from a range of enrichment opportunities designed to develop your skills, confidence and industry awareness. These include site specific work experience, film projects, industry workshops and Q&A sessions, performance opportunities, theatre trips, audition preparation, and participation in the Towngate Theatre end of year show. 

Alongside practical training, you will develop research skills and explore the practical and creative context of dance and the performing arts industry. English and maths are included to support your overall progression and professional development. 

By the end of the course, you will have developed strong technical dance skills, performance experience and creative understanding. This qualification supports progression into higher education, vocational training or continued development within dance and the wider performing arts sector.

To study this course, you must hold a Level 2 qualification or four GCSEs at grade 4 (grade C), including either English or Maths depending on the vocational subject being studied. 

Applicants will be required to evidence their ability in the subject through an audition and must successfully attend an interview event.

The audition will involve a warm up, jazz and ballet class. You will also be required to undertake a one minute dance solo in any style of your choice. 

There are no written exams. Assessment is based on project and portfolio based learning and includes practical tasks, performance assessment, self evaluation of own practice, and reflective processes. Portfolios will allow development of academic skills in consideration of university expectations

You will complete the following projects over the duration of the course: 

  • Project One: Dance Demonstration
  • Project Two: Choreographic Projects
  • Project Three: End Of Year Show
This course is free to UK learners under 19 who are not in employment

On completion of the course, you can progress to degree courses and conservatoire training, vocational study in performing arts, apprenticeships, or employment within the industry, providing a range of pathways into further study and professional careers.

2 years
Full Time
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Overall achievement rates (All learners)

90.2%

High achievement rates 3x 1

Ofstead good rating

Ofsted 3x 1

A safe environment to learn

Safe environment to learn 3x 1

Qualifications earned per year

18232

Impressive qualification numbers 3x 1

Award-winning careers programe

Award winning careers programme 3x 1

State-of-the-art facilities

State of the Art Facilities 3x 1

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