BTEC stands for the Business and Technology Education Council. BTECs are specialist work-related qualifications. They combine practical learning with subject and theory content.  
 
The BTEC study programme can be accessed from 16 years of age and is delivered by our highly trained professional artists and performing arts teachers within each learning facility over two years. Students will train and perform within our professional, purpose-built studios providing a unique and true vocational experience. 
 
As one of the oldest Musical Theatre colleges we'll ensure you maximise your true potential as you'll work closely with our working industry professionals. You will receive a high level performing arts training and work towards achieving the highest grades possible in line with our high internal standards to become the very best version of you. 
 
You will be assessed through practical performances, rehearsals, training sessions and assignments. This BTEC level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing Arts Practice will allow you to progress onto university, audition/apply to specialist, advanced performing arts schools and/or gain employment directly into the industry.  
 
 
Recognition 
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Performing Arts Practice (Musical Theatre) is awarded by Pearson and regulated by Ofqual. It is Level 3 on the Regulated Qualifications Framework. This qualification is equivalent to 3 A-levels and worth up to 168 UCAS points. 
 
Progression 
This BTEC level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing Arts Practice will allow learners to progress onto university, audition/apply to specialist, advanced performing arts schools and/or gain employment directly into the industry.
 
 
 
 
 

Midlands Academy of Dance & Drama

We are looking for emerging theatre directors based outside London to join Headlong Origins 2026, our year-long artist development programme supporting directors across the UK.

Running January–December 2026, this part-time scheme is designed to fit around your work and help you take the next step toward main-stage directing. It offers a blend of artistic support, mentoring, and practical experience with Headlong’s productions and creative processes. You’ll become part of a small cohort of directors and given the opportunity to explore and develop your own individual practices as a director with the support of your peers and the Headlong team. Across the year, you’ll also connect with our partner organisations, and guest artists, and be able to immerse yourselves in the day to day working of a national touring theatre company.

Develop creative studio and performance skills to create original music and discover innovative forms of music-making

DMU’s Music Technology BA is a distinctive, dynamic and market-leading course that challenges conventions in music composition and performance and explores the extraordinary musical possibilities offered by new technologies. It is ideal for forward-thinking and imaginative individuals whose passion is to create exceptional music and forge a unique voice within the arts and creative industries.

The course is taught by internationally recognised, experienced musicians who are active performers, composers and researchers.

Our professional, broad-minded and flexible graduates are well positioned to succeed in the thriving and rapidly changing contemporary digital media and music industries, and have a very strong track record at gaining employment as composers, sound designers, performing and recording artists, session musicians, recording engineers, producers and audio technicians in music management, theatre, TV and radio content and production.  

Our superb facilities allow you to explore areas such as sound recording and production, sequencing and synthesis, spatialisation, musical computing and video. We also have an extremely lively musical community with frequent concerts, events, music profession visitors and student exchanges.

Duration: Three years full-time, four years with placement

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