BTEC Higher National Certificate in Technical Theatre

The HNC and HND in Technical Theatre is aimed at people who would like to work behind the scenes in the performance industry. It develops skills in a variety of technical roles and offers the opportunity to work at a local theatre to gain skills and experience within the working environment. The HNC and HND Technical Theatre is for students who have an interest in the technical side of theatre, including sound and lighting design, set design and construction and stage management. You may have already studied electrical or sound engineering, IT or performing arts to Level 3, or have had some work experience in this area. The course will enable you to develop further technical competences both in college and on placement at a local theatre or venue.

48 UCAS points which are equal to two D Grades or above at A Level, pass grades at BTEC Extended Diploma Level or MP at Level 3 Diploma, plus a 4 Grade in English & Maths GCSE and complete the practical tasks that will be sent to you.

The units you will study are likely to include: Core Units: Automated lighting for live performance Employability skills Facilities operation in the theatre Lighting design and operation for live performance Performing arts rigging Production management in the performing arts Production skills for performance Set design Stage management in practice Theatre sound design and operation Work-based experience

The course is taught in a highly practical way using workshop style classes in which students work individually and in groups to develop and refine their skills, supported by lecturers with extensive experience in all areas. Work placements at local entertainment venues will be set up at the start of the programme and most learning will take place either on placement or at college supporting in-house performances.

There will be an expectation that students on this course will take on work placements in local theatres/venues throughout the two years of the programme and this may mean working some evenings and weekends as part of the qualification at times. Health & Safety Footwear and clothing required for the course will be detailed at interview.

This is a modular course and you will be assessed throughout the course rather than through examination. Practical projects, assignments, presentations and essays will be set for each module. The course will culminate in a final major project in which students take responsibility for the management of a major piece of assessed work showcasing their skills and specialisms.

After two years you will able to look for work in a theatre or other live performance venue or progress to the third year of a degree to specialise and hone your skills.
Career opportunities include:
Lighting technician
Sound engineer
Set design
Stage management
Top up degree courses in Theatre Production.