Pearson BTEC Nationals Performing Arts (2016)
Specification
Intended as a basic introduction to the performing arts sector alongside other fields of study. Supports progression to a wide range of higher education courses depending on other qualifications taken.
Qualification Summary
Title: Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Certificate in Performing Arts
Qualification number: 601/7231/9
Guided learning hours: 180
First teaching: September 2016
First external assessment: 2018
Performance tables: Applied Generals (2024,2025,2026)
Total qualification time: 240
Eligible for funding (England): Funding approval end date - 31/07/2026 (16-19; 19+ loan; 19-23 entitlement; )
Last registration: England - 31 Aug 2026; Northern Ireland- 31 Aug 2026; Wales - 31 Aug 2026;
Broad introduction studied as part of a programme of study including other courses, e.g. BTEC Nationals or A levels. Emphasis on core knowledge and skills transferable across other sectors supporting progression to higher education courses.
Qualification Summary
Title: Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Performing Arts
Qualification number: 601/7233/2
Guided learning hours: 360
First teaching: September 2016
First external assessment: 2018
Performance tables: Applied Generals (2024,2025,2026)
Total qualification time: 480
Eligible for funding (England): Funding approval end date - 31/07/2026 (16-19; 19+ loan; 19-23 entitlement; )
Last registration: England - 31 Aug 2026; Northern Ireland- 31 Aug 2026; Wales - 31 Aug 2026;
Qualification Summary
Title: Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Performance
Qualification number: 603/2993/2
Guided learning hours: 360
First teaching: September 2018
First external assessment: 2019
Performance tables: n/a
Total qualification time: 470
Eligible for funding (England): Funding approval end date - 31/07/2026 (16-19; 19+ loan; )
Last registration: England - 31 Aug 2026; Northern Ireland- 31 Aug 2026; Wales - 31 Aug 2026;
Designed as a one-year, full-time course or a full two-year programme when studied alongside further Level 3 qualifications. Supports further progression to higher education and employment, possibly in the performing arts sector.
Qualification Summary
Title: Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma in Performing Arts
Qualification number: 601/7235/6
Guided learning hours: 510
First teaching: September 2016
First external assessment: 2018
Performance tables: Applied Generals (2024,2025,2026)
Total qualification time: 675
Eligible for funding (England): Funding approval end date - 31/07/2026 (16-19; 19+ loan; 19-23 entitlement; )
Last registration: England - 31 Aug 2026; Northern Ireland- 31 Aug 2026; Wales - 31 Aug 2026;
Designed to be studied over two years alongside an additional Level 3 qualification. Progression: higher education and employment, possibly in the performing arts sector.
Qualification Summary
Title: Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Performing Arts
Qualification number: 601/7232/0
Guided learning hours: 720
First teaching: September 2016
First external assessment: 2018
Performance tables: Applied Generals (2024,2025,2026)
Total qualification time: 945
Eligible for funding (England): Funding approval end date - 31/07/2026 (16-19; 19+ loan; 19-23 entitlement; )
Last registration: England - 31 Aug 2026; Northern Ireland- 31 Aug 2026; Wales - 31 Aug 2026;
Designed to be studied over two years as the substantial qualification in a study programme. Supports progression to a range of sector-related degrees that can lead to employment, potentially in the performing arts sector.
Qualification Summary
Title: Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Performing Arts
Qualification number: 601/7234/4
Guided learning hours: 1080
First teaching: September 2016
First external assessment: 2018
Performance tables: Applied Generals (2024,2025,2026)
Total qualification time: 1415
Eligible for funding (England): Funding approval end date - 31/07/2026 (16-19; 19+ loan; 19-23 entitlement; )
Last registration: England - 31 Aug 2026; Northern Ireland- 31 Aug 2026; Wales - 31 Aug 2026;
Paul Webster
Drama, Theatre and Performing Arts
Planning on teaching this qualification?
We'll make sure you have the latest news and support to guide you through your delivery.
Teaching support and training
Published resources
A full range of published resources is available to support the delivery of our BTEC Nationals in Performing Arts (2016).
