This course will give students a basic understanding of performance, putting on shows, and design for the performing arts or music. This will help them get back into learning and give them the skills, knowledge, and understanding they need to continue their education or get a job in the performing arts field.
Through this course, you will get an introduction to a range of activities essential to the development and delivery of a dramatic or musical performance. You will learn the process of rehearsal, production, and delivery of performance and learn to work collaboratively.
Over the course of the year, you'll get to explore different parts of the performance and production industry! There are 9 units in total, and each one will focus on something different - like how to communicate with your audience, staging a performance, and how to develop your own performance and production skills. You'll also get to work on your research skills, which will be very helpful for further study as well as being central to a professional’s working practice.
Towards the end of the year, you'll work on a personal project, where you can explore something that interests you, and then a final project where you'll work with others to create something together.
You will need:
All applicants must have an audition to confirm that the course is suitable for them.
You will be assessed through coursework and performances, compiling a portfolio of evidence throughout the year. All units are assessed as 'pass' only as you build your skills, allowing you an opportunity to experiment and grow, until you complete the final unit which determines your final grade for the course (pass, merit or distinction).
If you will be aged 16, 17 or 18 on 31st August prior to the start date of your course and you have the legal right to remain in the UK for the duration of your programme then your study with us will be free. Please see here for the documents you will need to show us.
Some courses will have other associated costs, such as for specialist materials and trips. Many of our students are eligible for financial support, see here for details.
If you will be aged 16, 17, or 18 on 31 August in the year you begin your course and have been resident in the UK/EU/EEA for the past 3 years, it will be free. Some courses will have other costs associated, such as materials and trips. Many of our students are eligible for financial support when studying at college – please click here for more information.
This course will help you to move on to higher level courses such as our Level 3 courses, specialising in an area of performing arts, music or media.
Shenagh joined WKC Performing Arts Department in 2019, after previously beginning her teaching career in further education at Lewisham College in 2018. She is responsible for teaching acting techniques, theatre practitioners, vocal skills, drama improvisation, physical theatre, classical theatre, contemporary theatre, movement skills, scriptwriting skills, and directing end-of-year productions.
Before her tenure at WKC, Shenagh worked professionally as a dancer, actress, and playwright. She is a dual professional, actively engaged in writing for both theatre and TV. She has taught playwriting across several platforms, including Bath Spa University, The National Theatre, and Synergy Theatre Company.
Shenagh received the Alfred Fagon Award for her first play, 'A Pocket in The Sky,' which was also shortlisted for the Verity Bargate Award. Additionally, she was long-listed for the same award in 2021. Her plays have been performed on BBC Radio 4, at the Latitude Festival, Tricycle Theatre, and the Royal Court. She has been a writer in residence at The National Theatre Studio and has been selected to participate in schemes with both BBC and ITV.
Joining Westminster Kingsway College in 2021, Najla brings a wealth of experience and passion for opera to the institution. She boasts an impressive track record as an opera singer, with several notable accomplishments under her belt, including winning the 1st Prize at the Maria Callas Voice Competition in Brazil.
Najla has chosen to specialise in Verismo and Romantic repertoire, areas of music that resonate deeply with her. Her extensive knowledge of these genres allows her to connect with the profound emotions and storytelling inherent in opera.
Apart from her teaching commitments, which involve mentoring aspiring vocalists in private settings, Najla has graced the stage in renowned musical productions such as "The Phantom of the Opera" and "Evita." These experiences have not only honed her craft but have also provided valuable insights into the art of storytelling through music.
Najla approaches teaching with a profound understanding of performance, emphasising the importance of technique, emotional expression, and narrative in every musical note. She is dedicated to nurturing the talents of the next generation of musicians, guiding them on their journey towards artistic excellence.
Students at Westminster Kingsway College can look forward to an inspiring and empowering musical education journey under Najla's guidance. She eagerly anticipates the opportunity to share the beauty and passion of opera while helping students unlock their full vocal potential.
Sarah joined Westminster Kingsway College in January 2023. Prior to that she has taught a variety of courses in dance and drama in several other colleges across London and the surrounding areas. She has a background in contemporary dance and physical theatre and this informs the projects that she works on with her students. Sarah has a passion for musical theatre and has put on many a production exploring both traditional interpretations as well as new approaches to old standards. Sarah is a firm believer in the power of collaboration, so frequently incorporates group projects and ensemble work into her lesson plans. This not only helps students develop important social and communication skills but also allows them to learn from and inspire one another.
The teachers listed may change, these shown are an example of the teachers who teach on these programmes.