What Is Pearson BTEC International Level 3 Performing Arts?
| Qualification size | Guided learning hours | Assessment units taken |
|---|---|---|
| Subsidiary Diploma | 360 | 3: one mandatory and two optional |
| Foundation Diploma | 510 | 4 mandatory |
| Diploma | 720 | 7: five mandatory and two optional |
| Extended Diploma | 1,080 | 11 mandatory |
Pearson BTEC International Level 3 Performing Arts is a practical, post-16 qualification for progression towards further study or work in the performing arts. The centre assesses the work, with Pearson verification; some assessment uses Pearson Set Assignments.
Start by recording the learner's full qualification title. A search for “Level 3 BTEC Performing Arts” can also return UK National courses. Use the International specification for this course.
How do modules and units fit together?
Modules organise teaching; assessment units organise the evidence and decisions. The structure includes Performing Arts Skills Development, The Global Performing Arts Industry, Personal Performing Arts Profile and Collaborative Performing Arts Project. Larger sizes include more of this structure.
For planning, make two columns in your course outline: what you will teach, and which assessment unit will draw on it. This makes it easier to spot a project that generates plenty of activity but leaves an assessment requirement uncovered. Keep the unit code beside the project title so colleagues can trace the evidence.
What does each part of the course introduce?
- Skills development: exploring performance styles, creating material and performing for an audience.
- Industry: planning a career.
- Personal profile: developing and presenting individual work.
- Collaboration: working towards a shared project.
Use these as starting points for understanding the course, then read the actual unit requirements before designing a project. A short subject overview cannot replace the assessment criteria.
How many Pearson Set Assignments are required?
The Subsidiary and Foundation Diplomas require one skills unit assessed using a PSA; the Diploma and Extended Diploma require two. Read the current assignment instructions before scheduling assessment.
For the meaning of PSA and the distinction between who sets and who marks the task, read our International Pearson Set Assignment guide.
What should a new teacher check first?
- Confirm the registered size with your programme leader.
- Copy its required unit codes into the assessment plan.
- Agree who will retain performance evidence and how the assessor and internal verifier will find it.
- Check the authorised assignment materials before announcing deadlines.
For example, a department can keep a simple evidence index with the learner, unit, project and file location. This is a practical organisation suggestion, not an extra Pearson assessment requirement.
Where is the official specification?
Check Pearson's International Performing Arts qualification page and Issue 5 specification, especially the structure tables on printed pages 9–11. This introduction was checked on 11 October 2026.
Use our specification checklist when comparing documents. For another creative subject, see the International Level 3 Creative Media introduction.