BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Production Arts Practice
Creative industries are rapidly expanding in the UK and if you have ever envied the sound engineer, found yourself gazing at the lighting rig, or wondered what is going on backstage then this is the course for you
Why Choose this course?
For every music, theatre, and film production, for every exhibition, conference, community or corporate event, there are a whole team of backstage artists, designers, engineers, producers, managers, technicians, and crew. This course will allow you to develop the necessary skills to be able to assist backstage in a range of events. You will be taught with industry-standard equipment, and the opportunity to work on a variety of real events alongside your studies. Your achievement in this subject is dependent upon excellent attendance, teamwork, punctuality, and effort. You will learn in a friendly atmosphere, using a variety of assessment methods. Practical assessments are at the centre of course design and delivery.
Apply for this course
Start date: 08/09/2025
top course highlights
attend and work on live events
Course trips, residentials and work experience
Course work mainly practical
Extending learner experience
The department’s staff are in contact with local and national organisations in order to extend learner experiences and maintain links with the industry.
Develop skills
This course will support you to develop the technical and creative skills required for a broad range of Backstage, Production Arts and Live Events roles.
Access industry equipment
You will have access to industry-standard equipment and the opportunity to work on a variety of real events from theatre to festivals.
What will I learn?
During your first year you will develop skills in Rigging, Lighting, Live Sound, Visuals and Set/Stage Design. Much of this will be assessed practically, but you will also learn how to create industry-specific documents, such as stage plans, technical riders and risk assessments. By the end of year one you will have the chance to apply to work backstage at a national festival during the summer.
Once you feel confident with the equipment you will get the chance to push your creativity to the limit. Second year study puts you in the driving seat. You will have the opportunity to manage your own crew, create your own designs and choose which specialisms you would like to be assessed in. Many learners combine assessments with paid work and all learners will get the opportunity to work in local venues, building your portfolio and strengthening UCAS and job applications.
Where will it take me?
Some learners progress on to a range of university courses, past students are currently studying at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, Backstage Academy and Rose Bruford. Other learners have completed, and some have headed straight out into the industry in a variety of roles.
Former Production Arts students are currently working for Fineline Lighting, Ibiza Rocks (Production Manager), Snowbox Festival (Stage Manager), Glastonbury (Lighting/Crew), Gron Koncert Touring (Crew) and others are touring across the USA and Europe with signed acts.
Entry requirements
You will need four GCSEs at Grade 4 to include either English Language (or Literature) and/or Maths. A Level 2 Diploma at Merit in an appropriate subject can also be considered (plus GCSE English and/or Maths). Previous experience of backstage production would be beneficial.
Information & Support
AWARDING BODY
Pearson BTEC
FIRST DAY REQUIREMENTS Â Â Â Â Â Â Â
Hard Hats and Bump Caps provided; additional PPE recommended but not compulsory.
ADDITIONAL COSTS
Student contribution towards trips and visits
CONTACTSÂ Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â
stevenbrown@truro-penwith.ac.uk
hannahstephens@truro-penwith.ac.uk
Meet the staff, tour the campus and find out about life as a student at one of the best colleges in the country.
What you could earn
Potential Salary
£50,364
Entry Level Salary
£14,159
Average Salary
£27,733
Annual openings in Cornwall
4
Potential Salary
£50,364
Entry Level Salary
£14,159
Average Salary
£27,733
Annual openings in Cornwall
1
Potential Salary
£50,364
Entry Level Salary
£14,159
Average Salary
£27,733
Annual openings in Cornwall
