Performing Arts (Acting) - HND*

Entry Requirements

Successful completion of B&FC's HNC in Performing Arts is a pre-requisite of entry onto the programme.

You may be considered as an applicant if you have completed the first year of a Performing Arts degree elsewhere, but this will be at the discretion of the course tutors.

Qualification Obtained

Industry Placement and Field Trips

The programme provides work-related learning opportunities which are designed to embed and develop a range of transferrable skills to prepare you for employment opportunities in a range of related creative professions. These include skills in spoken, written and visual communication, the ability to manage collaborative and independent projects, creative problem-solving. Assessments are designed and created with industry professionals, meaning they are all related to scenarios that occur in the industry.

The curriculum team are also working professionals engaged in various aspects of the industry, alongside the expertise of the team, local employers are engaged in certain aspects of the course which will be tailored to your development, skill set and knowledge. External engagement with industry representatives may include:

•           field trips to local destinations and environments

•           inviting members of the local creative communities to present guest lectures

•           using employers to judge the quality of assessed presentations and/or products

•           establishing a panel of experts who students can pitch an idea to

Learning and Teaching Methods

Throughout this programme, you will take an active role in your learning through a combination of enquiry, project and problem-based learning by working collaboratively and in partnership with your fellow students, lecturers and specialist practitioners to take ownership of your personal and professional development. Working in partnership will support your learning processes and enable you to develop as an independent creative practitioner, peer to peer review, class discussions and seminars encourage the development of analysis, reflective thinking and self-evaluation.

Collaboration with other programmes across Blackpool School of Arts, formally and informally, will enrich the learning environment, supporting the discursive approach to learning. You will acquire an insight into industry through lectures, seminars and live briefs, this will support you in the transition from student to industry practitioner. Sessions will be delivered through tutor led demonstrations, one to one development workshops and group work. There will be a combination of learning through rehearsal time and on location in performance venues.

Assessment Methods

One of the elements that makes this course unique, is that all assignments have been designed and co-created with industry specialists, so you know you are gaining the technical skills to support a strong career.  

Assessment types will be varied, so that you are able to develop transferable skills such as independence, collaborative working, digital and communication skills as well as subject specific knowledge for preparation into a successful and long-term employment sector.

For the majority of practical units you will be asked to submit a portfolio or complete a performance, which comprises of a body of work including the planning and development stages as well as the final output. Written evidence should also be submitted containing references, creative development and written reflections. you will be assessed using a variety of methods:

•           Professional Development

•           Practical skills assessment

•           Critical self and peer-evaluation

•           Individual online portfolios/promotion of work

•           Group and individually produced artefacts

•           Written essays and reports

•           Reviews and evaluations

•           Individual and group presentations

•           Tasks aimed at the assessment of specific skills (for example digital skills, production skills, research skills and skills of application)

Other Costs and Equipment Needed

All resources such as rehearsal space and library facilities are included in the programme cost itself and you have the opportunity to engage in a professional enrichment programme. As a performance course we do recommend – but do not require – that you have the following items available to wear when necessary:

·           A set of loose-fitting black casual clothing suitable for movement work

·           At least one pair of soft dark shoes

·           At least one formal or semi-formal shirt

·           At least one pair of formal dark shoes

·           If anticipating playing female roles, character shoes.

Students may wish to purchase a laptop to facilitate their work at home, however computers are available across campus, in the Learning Resource Centre and college laptops are accessible through the library loan system.

Tuition Fees

Please click here to find out more about tuition fees for this course.

Regulation and Accreditation

Accrediting Institution: N/A

Awarding Body: Pearson

Regulatory Body: Office for Students (OfS)

Terms and Conditions

Read our full terms and conditions for more information.

Career Options and Progression

Further Study

The Level 5 Higher National Diploma is recognised by Higher Education providers as meeting admission requirements to many relevant Performing Arts courses, for example:

•           University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)

•           University of Salford

•           Manchester School of Art

•           UAL CSM

Employment Opportunities

Live Performing Arts production covers several careers in the performing arts industry and there are different routes to follow. Artists and designers create work for a range of creative outputs and may be involved exhibitions, publications, commissions and in support of the wider creative industry. Other employment opportunities include:

•           Choreographer

•           Assistant Choreographer

•           Performer: vocalist, dancer and actor

•           Actor: stage, camera, radio and multimedia 

•           Crew

•           Stage Manager, Assistant Stage Manager, Deputy Stage Manager

•           Education: workshop leader, facilitator

•           Dancer: jazz, ballet, commercial dance, tap, American tap, contemporary, physical theatre

•           Costume Design

•           Theatre Sound Design