Performing Arts

Level 1/2 Vocational Award in Performing Arts (Technical Award) (Starting Sept 2026)

Exam board: WJEC
Qualification type: Level 1/2 Technical Award (GCSE‑equivalent)
First award: Summer 2024
Course length: 2 years (Key Stage 4)

The WJEC Level 1/2 Vocational Award in Performing Arts is a practical, industry‑focused qualification designed for students who enjoy performance, creativity and practical learning. It develops skills in performing, creating and understanding how the performing arts industry works, alongside GCSEs.

Course Overview

This Technical Award is suitable for learners aged 14–16 and focuses on applied learning through realistic performance and creative tasks. Students gain experience that mirrors real working practices in the performing arts sector.

Learners take part in:

  • Performing existing work
  • Creating original performance or design work
  • Responding to professional‑style briefs and commissions

What Will Students Study?

The course is made up of three mandatory units:

Unit 1 – Performing

Internally assessed | 30% of qualification

Students:

  • Research and rehearse an existing performance piece
  • Perform work in Drama, Music, or Musical Theatre
  • Reflect on feedback and evaluate their performance

Performance can be solo or group‑based.

Unit 2 – Creating

Internally assessed | 30% of qualification

Students create original work in either:

  • Performance disciplines (e.g. devised drama, choreography), or
  • Production disciplines (e.g. costume, make-up)

They explore ideas, develop work in response to a brief, and refine their final piece following feedback.

Unit 3 – Performing Arts in Practice

Externally assessed | 40% of qualification

Students respond to a realistic industry commission, learning how to:

  • Plan performance work
  • Understand audiences and context
  • Promote and pitch ideas
  • Evaluate their creative practice

This unit brings together skills from Units 1 and 2 and reflects how professionals work in the performing arts industry.

How Is the Course Assessed?

  • 60% internal controlled assessment (Units 1 and 2)
  • 40% external controlled assessment (Unit 3)
  • Practical and portfolio‑based assessment
  • No written exam papers in the traditional GCSE sense

Grades range from Level 1 Pass to Level 2 Distinction*.

Skills Students Will Develop

Throughout the course, students will:

  • Build confidence in performance and presentation
  • Develop creativity and originality
  • Work independently and as part of a team
  • Reflect on feedback and improve their work
  • Learn about careers and working practices in the performing arts
  • Develop transferable skills such as communication, problem‑solving and organisation

Who Is This Course For?

This qualification is ideal for students who:

  • Enjoy drama, music, performance or behind‑the‑scenes production
  • Prefer practical and creative assessment methods
  • Are interested in careers in the creative industries
  • Want a vocational alternative alongside GCSE subjects

No prior performance qualification is required.

Progression Opportunities

The Level 1/2 Vocational Award in Performing Arts provides a strong foundation for:

  • Further study in Performing Arts, Drama or Music
  • Level 3 vocational courses or college study
  • Apprenticeships and creative career pathways
  • Developing confidence and key skills for any future pathway

Key Information at a Glance

  • Qualification: WJEC Level 1/2 Vocational Award in Performing Arts
  • Equivalent: GCSE‑level qualification
  • Assessment: 100% coursework and controlled assessment
  • Performance and production routes available
  • No tiering – grades awarded from Level 1 to Level 2 Distinction*