The Extended Diploma is equivalent to 3 A-levels. It is a 2 year, full time education programme with an additional complimentary year and is designed for students between the ages of 16-18. This course provides a thorough grounding in the performing arts industry focusing on key dance, acting and singing techniques.
The Extended Diploma course is made up of two elements (both elements are mandatory if you apply for this course).
Element 1:
Through our partnership with SCL college, students can achieve a RSL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing Arts Practice (Musical Theatre) (15-18 hours a week)
Element 2:
Private Vocational Training (10 – 15 hours a week)
These additional hours and associated fees are not linked to SCL College or required for the academic qualification.
Private sector hours make up 10–15 additional studio hours per week (over the 2 year course). These sessions allow us to offer a highly specialist vocational training, which may include the following (though not exhaustive):
Learn more information including study time breakdown and assessments
Introduction to the three main disciplines. Our first year gives us the opportunity to assess each student and begin to develop their programme for their time with us.
Gives the students a chance to build upon the foundations set in year 1, improving technique, strength and knowledge in all aspects of the course.
Throughout the year the student will have their progression monitored and extensive feedback will be given. More time is given over to preparing for the practicalities of preparing for the industry and more performance opportunities are available.
If you don’t move onto our degree course after year two, you can choose to complete an additional year (in house diploma). This year is unaccredited and industry training based only. The year will be focused on upskilling your practical skills further for the performing arts industry. Places in year three are offered following a review of your two year progress.
Entry Requirements:
4x GCSEs Grade 4 or above
Extended Diploma in Performing Arts;
You can apply directly to us for our Diploma course by completing our application form, once we have received this we can confirm your audition date.
What to expect on your Audition Day:
Our audition day is divided into two stages, each designed to assess various aspects of your performance abilities.
The first form of assessment is in three dance technique classes; Ballet, Commercial and Musical Theatre/Jazz.
In the second part of the day, candidates will be asked to perform a solo song (32-bar cut) and monologue (between a minute and a half to two minutes).
Throughout the auditions, our senior teachers and principals will be observing closely, evaluating not just your current skills but also your potential for growth and development in all areas.
Finally, the day concludes with a one-to-one interview with our principals. This is an opportunity for us to get to know you better, discuss your aspirations, and answer any questions you may have about our college.
Applications each year to the Extended Diploma in Performing Arts open in September and our auditions are in full-swing from November until April. We strongly recommend you get an application to us as soon as possible to guarantee you an early audition date.
For general application enquiries, please email: Admissions@wilkesacademy.co.uk
Application
Please apply directly with us using our application form.
Application Deadline:
Wilkes Academy is a private fee-paying college.
The Extended Diploma course is made up of two elements (both elements are mandatory if you apply for this course):
Element 1:
Through our partnership with SCL college, students can achieve a RSL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing Arts Practice (Musical Theatre) (15-18 hours a week)
Fees: This element is free and government funded via SCL college
Element 2:
Private Vocational Training (10 – 15 hours a week)
These additional hours and associated fees are not linked to SCL College or required for the academic qualification.
Fees: £2,000 per term (exc. VAT)
Private sector hours make up 10–15 additional studio hours per week (over the 2 year course) These sessions allow us to offer a highly specialist vocational training including:
