L3 performing arts The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Performing Arts is designed for post-16 learners with an interest in performing arts who want to continue their education through applied learning, and who aim to progress to higher education. This qualification gives a broad introduction to the performing arts sector with an emphasis on core knowledge and fundamental skills which are transferable across other sectors (including communication, presentation, physical and creative skills). The content of this qualification has been developed in consultation with academics to ensure that it supports progression to higher education. Employers and professional bodies have also been involved and consulted to confirm that the content is appropriate and consistent with current practice for students who may choose to enter employment. The three mandatory units focus on: research, critical analysis and extended writing skills that aim to support learners’ progression to higher education. Learners will gain a good understanding of the work of influential practitioners to inform their own work and practice an introduction to the performing arts where learners will develop the appropriate skills and techniques in various performance disciplines such as acting, dance, musical theatre and physical theatre group performance, where learners will develop the essential psychomotor and affective skills essential for the performing arts. They will develop physical techniques as well as wider transferable skills, such as being able to work collaboratively, personal management and organisation (rehearsals, time-management), being able to give and take direction, confidence in front of an audience, problem solving (refining the process) and teamwork (essential when dancing as a group). Learners will understand different audiences in different environments and will learn to adapt a performance to engage the target audience.