Level 3 Diploma in Performing and Production Arts 2025-26

The Level 3 programme is designed to help you extend your understanding of the Performing & Production Arts Industries whilst developing your skills in dance, drama, musical theatre and / or production arts; you will learn techniques, develop creativity and build your own profile as a performer or production specialist.

You will work through a series of projects and be involved in many activities both onsite and at external venues. Learners have the opportunity to perform onboard the ferry to Holland, participate in the annual Community Pantomime and be part of a range of events working with other creatives. If you are passionate about working in the Arts, then this is the programme for you!

The programme is 'learner responsive' which means we build projects around the learners who have chosen this programme of study. Recently learners have devised their own material for a commission from an external client, presented their work at a festival in York and enhanced their studies with a range of work experience opportunities in the Lubetkin Theatre and further afield.
You will be given guidance over the development of projects, which help you to develop independence and creativity. You will also participate in annual events, stage major productions and have the opportunity to see professional performances at different venues and experience a different culture on a trip to Holland!

• Actor
• Choreographer
• Cruise Ship Entertainer
• Dancer
• DJ
• Producer
• Screenwriter
• Sound Technician
• Vocalist
• Voice Over Artist

… and so much more!

Learners achieving a Merit at UAL Level 3 Diploma in Performing & Production Arts, can progress onto the UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing & Production Arts. Progression for most learners after successful completion of the Extended Diploma is onto a Degree in Performing Arts / Dance / Drama / Musical Theatre / Production. Alternative choices include employment in performance, in arts administration or production (choreography, script writing, lighting or sound operator), either working for an employer or as a freelance artist.

Five 9-4 grade GCSEs (including Maths and English) ideally GCSE in dance, drama or performing arts. Experience working in the arts within a dance school, drama group, choir, band or in a theatre would be an advantage.

Our entry requirements are in place to support our students in achieving the qualifications they have chosen to study. In addition to the entry requirements, all students will be regularly assessed by East Durham College at an early stage in their study programme. This is to ensure that students are enrolled onto courses which suit their abilities – following assessment, there may be occasions when students are transferred to a relevant course at a higher or lower level in order to ensure they are enrolled on to the right course for them to achieve and progress.

Entry onto any course at EDC may have entry requirements in addition to exam results; this includes but is not limited to DBS checks, references, fitness to practice and at times physical requirements to be capable of achieving the practical elements of the course without assistance. Entry onto any course at East Durham College is subject to final approval from the Assistant Principal.

There are 7 formative units delivered in 3 projects on the Level 3 Diploma, which are graded as Pass / Fail. Learners must pass each unit to progress to the final summative unit where the work for unit eight is graded as 'Pass' / Merit / Distinction'.
The course is assessed internally by an assessor, before being internally and externally verified to check the marking is consistent. Assessment includes live performances, products, video, audio and written submissions, being presented in a digital portfolio.

September 2025

The UAL Level 3 Diploma is a one year programme, with the Extended Diploma in year two; you will study across four to five days each week.

This full time course may also be available to study on a part-time basis if you are aged 18 or over on 31st August. Please check with Student Services for more details.