BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Performing Arts: Dance

Dancers are expected to be versatile technicians, performers, and communicators. This course will provide you with a strong foundation in a variety of techniques, engage you in dance analysis and encourage you to explore your creativity as a choreographer.

Duration 2 years
Qualification Extended Diploma
Start Date Thursday 3rd September 2026
Course Code FDDANCE26T
A group of performers on the stage. They are all wearing simple outfits with dramatic lighting.

TOP COURSE HIGHLIGHTS

  • Experienced Tutors
  • Learn and experience a wide variety of dance genres
  • Excellent Learning Environment

Learn from sector experts

Each element of the course will be taught by specialist staff with extensive experience in their subject.

Develop work-related skills

During your programme, you will also develop personal and work-related skills which will help prepare you for full-time work whether you decide to pursue the study of dance further or not.

Enjoy professional surroundings

Our dance studios are equipped with professional dance flooring and mirrors and our theatres are purpose-built to accommodate performances and assessments.

WHY CHOOSE THIS COURSE?

This course focuses on developing skills in a range of dance styles and explores ways to create and develop movement. You will participate in regular ballet, contemporary and jazz classes alongside creative and contextual workshops. If you are passionate about dance, enjoy working as a member of an ensemble and wish to enhance your contextual knowledge then studying on this course will allow you to develop both in an academic and practical way. You will achieve a qualification that is equivalent to three A Levels, which will allow you to progress on to a multitude of specialist training programmes at conservatoires and universities

WHAT WILL I LEARN?

The first year of the course allows you to build specialist skills and experience a variety of dance genres and methods of creating movement. The second year develops and challenges your skills as a performer, encouraging you to begin to realise your own creative and performance style. You will be supported and guided through the application and audition process for study at Degree level.

WHERE WILL IT TAKE ME?

Learners can progress onto a range of degree programmes in Dance or may also progress onto related degrees such as Musical Theatre or Drama. Other opportunities include employment in an area of the performing arts, whether it be as a trainee or apprenticeship with a company, in front-of-house or as a teaching assistant.

Assessment is continuous across the two years and will be delivered through projects and assignments. These will include the assessment of a range of appropriate skills including your dance technique, performance skills, ability to reflect on your own practice and essays focussing on research and critical analysis. You will be assessed on ensemble and solo performances, independent research projects, creative practices, and written assignments. Discussions and presentations also form part of the teaching, learning and assessment process.

Course code: FDDANCE26T
Duration 2 years
Qualification Extended Diploma