Quick facts
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Qualification type |
Level 4 Diploma |
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Duration |
1 year |
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Study times |
3 days plus 1 day of self-study with access to the venue |
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Entry requirements |
A Merit at Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing & Production Arts or 3 x Cs at A Level in at least one related subject. Extra-curricular classes in dancing, acting and singing will also be taken into consideration. |
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Campus |
The Viva Theatre, Spencer Drove, Soham, Cambs, CB7 6EE |
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Work placements |
Yes, within the Conservatoire EAST and VIVA Theatre's public season of events. |
Is it for me?
This course will provide you with excellent training in acting, singing and dance techniques you will need for progression to Drama School or University, to study the subject at degree level. It is for those who are dedicated and hardworking and really want to improve their skills so they can succeed at the next level. This course is run in partnership with VIVA Theatre in Soham, which will be your base for the duration of the course. There, you have access to professional theatre facilities and local state of the art dance studios. The VIVA Theatre is an amazing building, which used to be a late 19th century mill. Soham is easily accessible, with the train station within easy walking distance. There is also free parking onsite for drivers. During your training, you will be taught by a group of dedicated staff with a wide variety of experience in the sector. Sharing their skills, knowledge and network with you to hone your skills and support your progression to drama school.
What you'll learn
Technique classes in subjects such as Acting, Improvisation, Voice, Audition Prep, Body Conditioning, Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Commercial, Music Theory and Singing technique will focus on your knowledge, skills, and technique development. You will also work on your skills and knowledge with script work, rehearsal etiquette, director's language, preparation for freelance work and collaborating with a team, culminating in performances and a digital portfolio for assessment in each unit. There will be some trips and guest speakers organised to support the growth of your industry knowledge and preparation. We pride ourselves on producing work of a very high quality and instilling professional behaviours in every aspect of the course, to ensure you are as well prepared as you can be for the next stage in your training. This course is funded for 18yr olds and available to 19yrs+ students with an Advanced Learner Loan. Our staff will guide you through this process.
Work experience placements
Throughout the year you are essentially working in a professional theatre with opportunities to work in any role around the business. That could be front of house ushering, technical or backstage work, box office or assistant directing. The partnership between Conservatoire EAST and VIVA means you have access to both public seasons of events. Performances will likely be in both theatres as well as the potential for additional alternative performances, responding to the local need.
Assessment
You'll be assessed continuously throughout the course. This qualification sits with the University of the Arts London, the most industry-focused awarding body available. We use a variety of assessment methods, some of which can be adapted to your individual learning needs.
Further study
BA (Hons) Degrees in a variety of performance subjects such as Musical Theatre, Acting, Dance and Drama & Theatre Studies.
Example careers
· Stage Actor TV and Film Actor
· Musical Theatre Actor
· Producer
· Voice over artist
· Stand-up comedian
· Cruise Ship Performer
· Broadcast Presenter
· Community Arts Worker
· Drama Therapy
Discover more
[pp_button link='https://enrolment.wsc.ac.uk/OnlineServices/app_external.aspx?id=16002847491855']Apply online[/pp_button]
Days & times
Starting September 2025