Brand New BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing Arts Opening at Regional Theatre
Worcester Theatres Performance Hub
Worcester Theatres is incredibly excited to announce the WT Performance Hub; a brand-new strand of our work focusing on delivering high quality arts education for the young people aged 16 – 19 in Worcestershire.
From September 2025 Worcester Theatres will be one of a handful of professional theatres within the UK offering a fully accredited BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing Arts; all based at Worcester’s very own Swan Theatre. This two-year course focuses on delivering a highly practical course preparing students to enter the industry or for Further Education at a University or Drama School.
In recent years we have seen a big decline in Arts Education, with colleges having reduced funding and institutions like Bristol Old Vic closing their undergraduate course and other major drama schools considering redundancies to their staff. Worcester Theatres believe that regional theatres such as us should be taking the lead in supporting our industry and the young people which are the future of it.
What is the biggest benefit for our future learners? They’ll have the unique chance to showcase their talent at the Swan Theatre! Regular performances mean they’re not just learning – they’ll be experiencing the industry, all while being mentored by the dedicated Worcester Theatres team. They’ll also gain exclusive access to Worcester Rep productions by meeting the creative teams, which will give them invaluable insights into the industry. Plus, the BTEC is equivalent to three A-Levels and worth up to 168 UCAS points.
Owen Harper, Worcester Theatres’ Creative Producer said “We are over the moon to be able to run the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing Arts here. It’s a massive step in the right direction for both Worcester Theatres and the arts and cultural make up of the region. Having a quality arts education offer is crucial to the sustainability of any regions’ creative scene.
We can’t wait for our first cohort to join us in September 2025; the quality and experience our professional team can provide is a massive benefit to our future students. If a fully accredited course within a professional theatre existed when I was 16, that’s where I would have been! If you or your child is thinking about taking performing arts at college or sixth form, I highly suggest you come along to the WT Performance Hub.’
Want to learn more? Worcester Theatres will be holding two open day events where parents and prospective students are invited to find out all about the WT Performance Hub. The first Open Day will be on Tuesday 17th June from 5pm until 7pm and the second will be on Saturday 28th June from 1.30pm until 3.30pm. If you would like to attend either Open day and have any queries, please email outreach@worcestertheatres.co.uk.
For more information check out the Worcester Theatres Website or email outreach@worcestertheatres.co.uk.