Access to HE Diploma (Performing Arts) (Acting) Level 3 OCNLR

When & Where

15 September 2025 - 3 July 2026 ( 450 hours, 30 weeks )
Morning, Tuesday
View course timetable
Waterloo Centre

Quick Facts

Availability Yes
Tutor Multiple
Course Code W25DMAF01A
Suitable For 19 year olds and up are permitted on this course

What you will learn

This Acting Diploma course is highly practical and taught by industry professionals. It focuses on developing your acting skills such as audition technique, movement, voice, devising, performing classical texts, and acting for screen. There is also an academic element to the course which allows you to explore different theatre practitioners and the theatre industry, as well as undertaking an extended research project. In the last term of the course the group will work towards a final production. The course is aimed at preparing you for drama school or for entering the industry. Our previous graduates have gone on to gain agents, one is currently appearing as a series regular in the Netflix show, Supacell. Units could include: Acting: Scenes to Performance Approaches to Acting Voice Skills for Actors Movement for the Performer Non-Text Based Performance We look forward to meeting you for a friendly audition and chat about the course.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

Take part in an audition with confidence
Perform on stage and screen
Warm up your voice and body safely for performance
Work as part of an ensemble of actors
Use your imagination to create characters
Progress onto a Level 4 course and / or start working in the industry

On successful completion of the course, you will achieve the following qualification: Access to HE Diploma (Performing Arts) [OCNLR]

Class format and activities

Classes are practical and held in our Drama Studio at our Waterloo Centre for Adult Learning. The Waterloo Centre is close to the many leading theatres, the Young Vic, the Old Vic and The Nation Theatre, along with a wealth of fringe theatre venues.

Entry requirements

You must be aged 19 or over and have GCSE English at Grade A-C / 4-9. If English is not your first language or you have not previously studied in English, our usual requirement is the equivalent of an International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Test) score of 6.5/7, with not less than 6.0 in each of the sub-tests. If you are not sure whether you meet the entry requirements, please submit an enquiry and one of the teaching team will discuss this with you. We are are also looking for * evidence of confidence and willingness to perform in front of others; * evidence of a commitment to contributing ideas and working well with others; * evidence of some ability to follow direction; * evidence of a commitment to a career in the performing arts You are eligible for a FREE place if you are: * 19 – 23 years old (you must be 19 or over or under 24 on 31st August) OR * Not in full–time education, employment or training * You do not yet hold a full level 3 qualification

What you need

You will need practical clothes to move in. A way of taking notes - either a note book, laptop or phone. Bottle of water for all classes. A willingness to try new things and play!