October 2026 BTEC Performing Arts update
Welcome to this October update with all the latest news on our BTEC Performing Arts qualifications.
Please do get in touch if you have any questions using my details below.
In this update you will find information on:
- Performing Arts training and support events
- BTEC term-time checkpoint and key dates guide
- Unit 1 Investigating Practitioners' Work SMLW
- Digital Assessment Plans
- Turning passion into possibility with BTEC
- Post-16 Vocational Qualification reform
- BTEC Performing Arts Sharing Best Practice Facebook page
- One Dance UK Awards
- Support and Contact
Performing Arts training and support events
We have some free online training events happening this term for the Tech Award in Performing Arts.
You can also access recordings of past events that you might find useful, including the All Set For 26/27 support sessions, which include guidance on all key dates and information for this academic year.
| Getting Started: Ways to Teach and Assess BTEC Tech Award (2022) in Performing Arts | 07 October 2026 | 16:00 - 18:00 GMT | Register now |
| Marking and moderation for Internally Assessed Components- Component 1 | 13 October 2026 | 16:00 - 18:00 GMT | Register now |
| Marking and moderation for Internally Assessed Components- Component 2 | 21 October 2026 | 16:00 - 18:00 GMT | Register now |
| All Set for 26-27: BTEC Level 2 Performing Arts (Tech Award and Firsts) | Recording | 1 hour | View now |
| All Set for 26-27: BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts and Production Arts | Recording | 1 hour | View now |
| New to BTEC Tech Award in Performing Arts/Dance | Recording | 1 hour | View now |
| New to BTEC Nationals in Performing Arts/Performance | Recording | 1 hour | View now |
BTEC term-time checkpoint and key dates guide
Stay on track with key BTEC dates, deadlines and milestones throughout the year. The guide also includes links to guidance, training, events and support resources to help you plan ahead and stay informed.
We recommend bookmarking the guide and sharing it with colleagues involved in qualification delivery.
BTEC Digital Assessment Plan
Deadline:13 November 2026
The Digital Assessment Plan (DAP) is live, giving centres a simpler way to plan assessments.
Performing Arts qualifications in scope are:
- BTEC Firsts Performing Arts (2012) | Pearson qualifications
- BTEC Nationals in Performing Arts (2016) | Pearson qualifications
Qualifications not in scope will continue to use the existing assessment plan template. A full list can be found in Appendix A of the centre guide.
Turning passion into possibility with BTEC
When Dee was uncertain about his future and needed direction, BTEC helped him turn his passion for creativity into a career. It gave him a path forward – and led him to become a teacher, where he helps others turn their potential into possibilities.
For students figuring out their own paths this back-to-school season, Dee’s story is a powerful reminder that learning can change lives.
Unit 1 Investigating Practitioners' Work SMLW
There are some new top band examples of Sample Marked Learner Work for Unit 1, including useful commentary from the Lead Examiner, which include work from:
- Emma Rice: Wuthering Heights and The Flying Lovers Of Vitebsk
- Frantic Assembly: Lovesong and Things I Know To Be True
And some band 2 responses for:
- Paper Birds: Broke
- Steven Berkoff: Metamorphosis
- Christopher Bruce: Ghost Dances
Help shape the future of post-16 vocational qualifications. Register your interest to join our feedback panel.
Do you teach any of our BTEC Performing Arts or Production Arts courses?
Then this group was made for you. It’s a friendly, professional space where you can share ideas, swap tips, and ask those everyday teaching questions.
Whether you're after inspiration or support, this is a great place to collaborate with others and get the latest news.
I am delighted to announce that I will be a judge for the One Dance UK Awards, which celebrate the impact the dance community is having right across the country.
Nominations for the One Dance UK Awards will be closing soon on Thursday 8th October!
These awards spotlight the individuals who inspire, innovate, and create change, from dedicated teachers and community artists to behind-the-scenes champions and visionary leaders.
Whether it’s a dance teacher inspiring students, a project connecting communities through movement, a healthcare professional advancing dancer wellbeing, or an artist breaking new ground in digital performance, if you know an exceptional individual, don't miss your chance to nominate them and give them the recognition they deserve.
Subject advisor
Paul Webster
Drama, Theatre and Performing Arts
