FdA Performing Arts

The course is made up of a mixture of practical and theoretical sessions.

Students will be studying a specialist programme focused on performance that offers a broad but interconnected selection of units. This course offers students opportunities to explore old and new performance-based methodologies, musical theatre performance, dramaturgy, analysis of contemporary play texts, voice-over, acting for online gaming and professional development with a clear focus on employability and next steps.

As part of this course, and in replication of the ’real world’ students will find themselves collaborating with their peers from other disciplines (Radio, Film and Events departments) to complete project work that places the individual at the centre of creativity and to give that individual experience of many aspects to the creative industries. There will be opportunities for cross-disciplinary learning to assure preparation for the wider artistic climate and the development of a clear perception of the role of performer in an industry that is evolving rapidly, with online content now providing a significant opportunity for a performing arts graduate. The self-confidence required to contribute to collaborative, time-bound creative projects are developed through a secure understanding of the current demands of the industry. Students will therefore be supported in the development of their strengths, the improvement of their weaknesses and the creation of new opportunities through exposure to a wide range of teaching methods, theatrical and new media experiences, staff expertise and visiting professionals.

Initially there is a practical introduction to performance. From audition to full scale production in our 135-seat theatre. Running in parallel with the introduction to performance will be a unit that places an intense focus on practical skills training. Students will work on singing, acting, dance and voice for industry focused careers. While there is some focus on skills for theatre performance there will also be a consideration of how these skills can be used in wider employments contexts. Examples: gigs, voiceovers, cruise ships, teaching, workshop leading and more. In addition, students will undertake units considering performance contexts and criticism to assure their understanding of the importance of theoretical underpinnings of performance. There will be work-based learning experiences throughout the course and students will have the opportunity to work with industry practitioners.

Students are expected to continuously engage in critical analysis utilising the theoretical skills they will have gained throughout their studies. This could be a consideration of a local theatre company, an essay, or an analysis of a particular theatre genre/historical perspective.

Continual Assessment through a series of practical performances, written assignments and oral presentations. 100% attendance is expected to pass the programme.

Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the programme specification, the information is liable to change to take advantage of exciting new approaches to teaching and learning as well as developments in industry.

This course is for anyone who has a passion for performing.  A degree in Performing Arts can be your path to a fulfilling and hugely engaging career. At the Bournemouth & Poole College, our Performing Arts department has a proud history of delivering quality degrees that are an immersive, enlightening, and interactive experience for students.

The artistic voice asks those who listen to think, to question and to reflect on what it is to be human. In other words, it is power. At The College, we seek to help you discover that power and find ways specific to you that will enable you to use that power to build a career in whatever field you ultimately choose.

Students on the course will also get the opportunity to form a company and undertake rehearsal and performance in an alternative context. This may be at The Lighthouse in Poole or a similar regional venue. This will equip our students with the practical skills required to have a rewarding career in the arts. The emphasis will be on community engagement and realising projects through appropriate means. Students may consider working in schools, special needs groups, writing original material, running an event or festival, dramaturg and script development. Students will build upon their critical theoretical understanding as covered in the first unit and use this to complete a funding bid for their own project with a local festival/arts council body.

As students near the end of their studies at the college they will be expected to research and engage with the local arts sector and undertake a short work placement. Students will be encouraged to engage with companies such as; Pavilion Dance, BEAF, Activ8, Schools, Black Cherry Theatre Co, Arts by the Sea (and more).

Four GCSE passes at grade 4 (formerly C) minimum, including Maths* and English or equivalent, plus
Two A Levels or an equivalent Level 3 qualification e.g. BTEC Extended Diploma or NVQ3 or
Level 3 Advanced Diploma in Creative and Media may be considered in combination with other qualifications, or
An Access to Higher Education Diploma
UCAS tariff points 48 from two full A Levels or equivalent, including one full A Level at 32 tariff points (i.e. grade C) in a relevant subject.

Relevant subjects: Dance, Performing Arts, Drama 

You will receive regular tutorials, which will enable you to discuss your progress with your personal tutor. Your study units will be assessed by both external verifiers and by your personal tutors. You will be continually assessed during your course through a series of practical performance and work related assignments. You will be supported creatively and professionally in many aspects of the industry and will be given the tools and encouragement to take responsibility for your own learning and achievement, taking into account industry standards for behaviour and performance.

Students can progress on to a one-year Honours degree Top-Up (level H), or employment in a range of performance-related activities. The FdA Performing Arts is focused on preparing students for work in the industry. The department has strong links with the profession and working practitioners. The expectation of students on the course mirrors the Performing Arts with an emphasis on discipline, focus and ambition. For more information, please refer to careers guidance/course specific details on The College’s Higher Education website: www.thecollege.co.uk/higher-education/careers-guide/career-planning

Throughout the course you will work with various industry professionals. As part of the work experience units, students will study briefs that are set by companies and individuals from within the performing arts industry. There are also opportunities for teaching, producing, directing and performing.

We can provide full-time learners the opportunity to enter employment in the Performing Arts sector such as Acting (Film Theatre and TV), Singing, Variety, Musical Theatre, Contemporary Theatre, Classical Theatre, Commercial Dance, Contemporary Dance, Production roles (Lights, Sound, and Stage Manager etc) or to progress to vocational qualifications such as an FDA in Contemporary and Musical Theatre and Contemporary Dance at Bournemouth and Poole College. Alongside the Performing Arts and entertainment industry, the transferable skills you will develop will enable you to find work in various industries i.e. Customer Service, Project Management, Team Leading, Professional Development, Recruitment, Sales, Media, Events Management and Advertising.

£7,750 per academic year

Students who are eligible, can apply for a student loan via Student finance login - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) to cover the cost of the tutiton fees.

International Fees 

We currently do not offer this course to International applicants due to UKVI regulations.

You will have the opportunity to perform in the Jellicoe Theatre which is a fully functioning venue.  We produce 22+ shows per year with a variety of shows including Musicals, Dance Shows, Classical and Contemporary Plays

By the end of the course, you will be able to...

• Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the intellectual, imaginative and practical skills needed to embark on a career in the creative industries.
• Demonstrate and articulate your understanding of the relationships between different aspects of performance, trends and histories and a clear sense of where your own professional strengths              lie  and how you intend to launch your career in the industry.
• Communicate your ideas both in both a verbal and practical way.
• Articulate your understanding of the complex nature of the industry, the forms that this may take and the target audience a specific project is aiming at.
• Collaborate with others effectively in the realisation of a performative and/or participative event within or across disciplines.
• Extend academic learning as an independent, self-reflective, and creative practitioner, fully prepared for professional environments or postgraduate study.

Please note although accredited by Arts University Bournemouth, students on this course will enrol directly with The Bournemouth and Poole College.

Venue: The course is delivered at The College's Jellicoe Theatre.

Awarding Body:
Arts University Bournemouth (AUB)

Curriculum Area:
Creative and Digital Industries - Performing Arts