Level 2 · UAL · Full-Time · 1 year full-time
You want to perform and this is where it starts. This course builds your skills in acting, dance, and musical theatre while you work towards the grades you need for Level 3. No exams, no sitting behind a desk, a large part of your time is practical work in our performance spaces and dance studios. You'll perform in live shows, complete real industry work placement, and develop the confidence and technique to step up to specialist training the following year. This isn't a waiting room. It's the foundation year that gets you stage-ready.
Build your performing arts skills and your GCSE grades ready for Level 3 the following year
Other courses you might be interested in:
Level 3 UAL Level 3 Diploma In Performing & Production Arts – Acting
Level 3 UAL Level 3 Diploma In Performing & Production Arts – Dance
Level 3 UAL Level 3 Diploma In Performing & Production Arts – Musical Theatre
View all Performing Arts courses →
This is a hands-on course where you’ll spend most of your time performing, not sitting in a classroom. You’ll try acting, dance, and musical theatre, working in our professional dance studio and drama theatre with tutors who’ll push you to improve. You’ll put on live shows for real audiences, learn how a production comes together behind the scenes, and start building the confidence to perform under pressure. By the end of the year, you’ll be ready for Level 3.
You’ll also do 30 hours of work placement in a real performing arts setting so you’ll see what the industry actually looks like. There are no exams on this course. It’s about 60% practical performance, with some written coursework (workbooks, not test papers), so you’re always making and doing. Your GCSE Maths and English study fits around the course, built into your timetable — everything in one place, everything moving you forward.
Written assignments, research projects, and case studies that let you explore topics in depth.
Hands-on tasks and practical demonstrations in realistic working environments.
Collaborative projects that develop your teamwork and communication skills.
Actors, entertainers and presenters sing, portray roles in dramatic productions, perform comedy routines, gymnastic feats and tricks of illusion, train animals to perform and perform with them, and introduce and […]
Artists create artistic works using appropriate techniques, materials and media; design artwork and illustrations; and restore damaged pieces of art.
Arts officers, producers and directors assume creative, financial and organisational responsibilities in the production and direction of television and radio programmes, films, stage presentations, content for other media, and the […]
Dancers and choreographers devise, direct, rehearse and perform classical and contemporary dance routines.
Events managers and organisers manage, organise and coordinate business conferences, exhibitions, concerts and similar events.
Train in the same dedicated performance spaces and fully equipped dance studios used by all three Level 3 specialist pathways. You're using professional facilities from day one.
Full Dance Studio
Full-length mirrors, professional sound system, sprung floors. This is where you'll train, choreograph, and rehearse. The studio is purpose-built for dance and movement work across all styles, from contemporary technique to musical theatre choreography. It's your space from day one.
Drama Hall & Performance Space
A dedicated performance space where you'll rehearse and stage live shows for real audiences throughout the year. This isn't a classroom with the desks pushed back, it's a working theatre space where you learn what it actually feels like to perform under proper conditions.
Industry Guest Speakers
Every year we bring in working professionals from across the performing arts industry: actors, directors, choreographers, producers, and backstage specialists. They work directly with our students. You'll hear how they got started, what the industry actually looks like, and get honest advice from people who do this for a living. It's one of the things our students consistently say makes the course feel real.
Students performing in our own drama hall
Student Voice
College has helped me become more open-minded and step out of my comfort zone. I’ve loved the opportunities, especially the work placements. I plan to follow my passion for performing. It’s been a great experience—I’ve learnt loads and made memories with amazing people.
Students are often surprised by how friendly and welcoming college is. It's a supportive community where they'll build genuine friendships and feel part of something.
About student lifeIf your child needs to resit GCSE English or Maths, it's built into the timetable — not bolted on as an extra. They'll get structured support alongside their main course.
About student supportIf your child has additional learning needs, our support team works with them from day one. Adjustments are put in place early so they can get the most out of their course.
About learning supportYour child's safety is our priority. All staff are DBS-checked, our safeguarding team is available every day, and students always know who to go to if something isn't right.
Our safeguarding commitmentLevel
Level 2
Duration
1 year full-time
Study Mode
Full-Time
Awarding Body
UAL
Assessment
Coursework + Practical Assessment + Group Work
Progression Routes
Route A: Level 2 Performing & Production Arts → Level 3 Acting, Dance, or Musical Theatre (Diploma, Year 1) → Extended Diploma (Year 2) → University or Employment
Applications for September 2026 are open. Apply online in 10 minutes.
Questions? Call free 0800 358 7575 or email dcinfocentre@don.ac.uk