Course summary

The principal aims of the Foundation Degree in Arts is to: • provide an educational foundation for a range of creative careers in the Performing Arts • provide students with work-based experience that explores the performing arts • develop students' knowledge of the underlying concepts and principles associated with their area(s) of study, and an ability for them to evaluate and engender a professional approach to performance • enable students to present, evaluate and interpret qualitative and quantitative data, in order to develop lines of argument and make sound judgements in accordance with basic theories and concepts of their subject(s) of study • develop a range of skills and techniques, personal qualities and attributes essential for successful performance in professional working life • provide specialised studies directly relevant to pathways in which students intend to seek employment (Acting, Musical Theatre) Distinctive features of the programme: • The programme is delivered by experienced practicing Performing Arts professionals and academics, all of whom have a wide range of skills and relevant industry experience in TV, Film and Theatre. For example, working with ITV, BBC, Channel 4, Sky, The Bolton Octagon, The Royal Exchange in Manchester and The Lawrence Batley in Huddersfield. • The programme encompasses a broad range of learning and teaching opportunities in Performing Arts, including conceptual, technical and commercial areas. • The programme builds on your previous learning and experience, giving you the opportunity to produce work of a professional standard within your Performing Arts specialism. • The training prepares you for the reality of industry. It gives you a range of experiences and roles to fully prepare you for a portfolio career in the Performing Arts. • The department has significant partnerships with local venues, companies and organisations to ensure that professional experience is embedded within your programme. • Students will be given the opportunity to participate in projects with the Performing Arts Graduate Theatre Company, offering a bridge into the industry. • The programme provides the opportunity to work collaboratively across different disciplines, creating a professional and vocational experience. For example, this could include music students, as part of the annual Christmas Musical and Film, Media and Media Make-up students on film projects. • Students in their final year will perform in a ‘Showcase’ which they plan and organise and invite industry professionals. This potentially gives students the opportunity to meet and perform in front of agents and casting directors as well as other industry contacts, possibly in an external venue. • The College was the first FE/HE provider to be a Lead Associate school of The Royal Shakespeare Company which gives students the opportunity to work directly with the RSC and be involved in their projects and workshops and even deliver their content. • The department is fully equipped with industry standard equipment and facilities including two performance spaces. Both the Lister drama studio and The Spinning Shed Theatre space are equipped with a full lighting rig and PA. • The programme offers a range of opportunities to enhance your learning. For example, overseas trips, visiting guest lecturers, live performance opportunities and professional commissions. • The department offers you a high level of pastoral and academic support with accessible and helpful tutors. • The College is committed to working in partnership with students – recognising the importance of the student voice and providing regular and timely informal and formal feedback to all students to support their learning experience and development as a practitioner.