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Performing Arts HNC

Performing Arts Advanced (Level 3 )Acting Pathway students on stage.

Overview

Performing Arts HNC

The PAD’s Higher National Certificate in Performing Arts Course is an ideal opportunity to gain a higher-level qualification that will develop practical skills and knowledge in a number of specialist areas. As well as gaining vital experience to prepare you for a range of pathways, it offers the potential for you to continue your studies on the Higher National Diploma, subject to grade profile.

The course offers exciting technical and artistic training encompassing the full breath of Performing Arts. Students are nurtured to become creative, highly disciplined and adaptable performers.

Graduating students will have full exposure to the industry as young collaborative individuals equipped with resilience and integrity. The Performing Arts teaching team has a wealth of experience in both teaching and industry and will nurture you to reach your full potential.

Why study?

  • Train in a 10,000 sq ft purpose-built studio complex
  • Working industry professional teachers
  • An end of year full scale production – every academic year, for every student!
  • The opportunity to take part in at least 2 live performances each year
  • Over 25 contact hours per week
  • Small year groups
  • A college with a focus on technique as well as artistry

Ready to apply?

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Important information

No. of contact hours

30 hours per week.

Expected self-study

10 hours per week.

Regulatory body

Pearson

UCAS code

PA02

Student Loans Company code

214268

Course information

Entry requirements

32-48 UCAS points.

Entry is by audition and applicants are assessed on talent, character, and potential.

All applicants are individually assessed on their qualifications, skills and experience during an audition process.

Applicants need to be over the age of 18 years and require a minimum of 2 A levels, or BTEC National Diploma or another Level 3 equivalent study programme. In addition, applicants require a minimum of 3 GCSEs of Grade 4 or above, (including Maths & English Language), or equivalent qualifications.

Accreditation may be given for prior learning both academic and work-based.

Course content

You will be continually assessed through a series of practical sessions, performances, rehearsals and theory units.

Core Units:

  • Unit 2 – Professional Development
  • Unit 1 – The Performing Arts Industry

Specialist Units:

  • Unit 3 – Jazz Dance 1
  • Unit 18 – Voice & Speech for Actors
  • Unit 12 – Singing 1
  • Unit 15 – Ensemble Singing
  • Unit 13 – Acting
  • Unit 16 – Vocal Repertoire
Assessment methods

Students are assessed through a series of practical and written assignments.

Some of our assessments come in the form of shows on a stage, while others will be solo performances specifically for the assessment.

The qualification

HNC in Performing Arts.

Further study and career options

Course progression:

Progress further at The PAD on the Level 5 Higher National Diploma Course
The option of progressing to another HE establishment to continue training.

Career progression:

Apply for work in various employment areas. In the past, graduates have progressed to perform in West End musicals, cruise ship contracts, pantomimes, TV & radio employment, performance workshop leaders, teachers, choreographers, directors and performing touring contracts.

Additional information

Additional costs:
The qualification fee is £6000 and is eligible for Student Finance.

All students require appropriate dance and performance attire. An essentials kit list is supplied to all successful candidates and are required to be purchased.

External trips, travel and accommodation costs are not included in the course fees and therefore will be required.

Available Courses
Central Bedfordshire College The Pad (Performing Arts Depot)
Starts: 22/09/2025
Type: HE
Length: 1 year
Day(s):
Time(s):
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Fees: £6,000.00 Fee notes: The fee indicated is for each year of the course.
Disclaimer

Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information on the Website is correct, some details may be subject to change. The Bedford College Group reserves the right to make amendments to the courses, dates, fees or other details, and to make cancellations or changes if numbers are insufficient. In the unfortunate situation that we have to cancel a course we will refund your fees in full, but we regret we are not able to offer any refund if you withdraw from your course or fail to start, and you will be liable to pay any outstanding fees that may be due.

Additional Learning Support

If you have a specific learning difficulty or disability, are deaf or hearing impaired, our Additional Learning Support team are on hand to give you assistance whenever you need it. Email: ALSteam@bedford.ac.uk or call us on 01234 291333.

Financial Support

For information regarding financial support, please visit the Financial Support section to see the support you may be entitled to apply for.

Accessibility

We have access arrangements in place to help students with disabilities or any other particular needs. Call us on 01234 291000 or 01536 413123 for more information.

Any questions?

If you would like to find out more about this or other courses, please use our Livechat below, email info@bedfordcollegegroup.ac.uk or call us on 0345 658 8990.