Qualification

Pearson BTEC Level 1/Level 2 Tech Award in Performing Arts (with a Dance Approach)

An introduction to the course

This BTEC Tech Award course enables you to get a taste of what it is like to be a professional dancer and choreographer. Throughout the course you will develop dance skills and techniques and experience the thrill of putting your skills into practice through regular performance opportunities. You will also learn how to evaluate and improve your skills and develop an understanding of professional dance.

What the course involves

There are three components to this course.

• Component 1: ‘Exploring the Performing Arts’ involves exploring a variety of dance styles, investigating practitioners and discovering performance skills.
• Component 2: ‘Developing Skills and Techniques in the Performing Arts’ requires you to take part in dance workshops, develop and apply physical and interpretative skills and reflect on your progress.
• Component 3: ‘Performing to a Brief’ is where you apply your skills and understanding in a final performance piece.

How the course is assessed

Component 1 and 2 are internally assessed (marked by the teacher) and involve a combination of practical performances and supporting written coursework. These components combined make up 60% of the final grade. Component 3 is externally assessed (marked by the exam board), is worth 40% of the final grade and requires you to work in small groups to create a performance based on a set task.

Career opportunities

Career opportunities include professional dancer, choreographer, teacher, dance therapist, dance manager, dance administrator and dance company director. This course also develops a wide variety of transferable skills that are useful in many professions these include self-confidence, resilience, determination, communication, creativity and self-discipline.

Post-16 opportunities

If successful in this course students could develop their skills further by studying the Level 3 BTEC Performing Arts qualification or A Level Dance. Students may also choose to study for a dance diploma or degree at university or college, undertake an apprenticeship in a dance company or find employment in the performing arts industry.

Required resources/equipment for the course

It is essential that you have an enthusiasm and passion for dance and an interest in performing, as this is an important aspect of the course. Prior dance experience is advantageous but not essential. Unless you wish to do so you will not be required to perform a solo as part of this course.

For further information please contact Ms Kate Brown at kbrown@newcollege.leicester.sch.uk