FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS.
Q: How do I apply for the course?
A: Application is easy, simply click here and complete our online form and a member of our team will come back to you in 48 hours to discuss attending our next Open Day and arranging your audition.
Q: Do you have an open day?
A: Yes we hold open days regularly. You will be able to experience classes and have the opportunity to ask tutors and students as many questions as you want. The open days are open to students from 14 yrs old with an interest in exploring Performing Arts as a career.
Q: What do I need to prepare for my audition?
A: Each course requires different audition preparation. Please visit each course page on our website to find out more.
Q: What age do I need to be by the start of the course?
A: Each student needs to be 16 years of age when starting the Level 3 course and 18 years of age for the Level 4 course.
Q: Where is the course based?
A: All tuition takes place at our purpose built studios, PAD Studios, in Dunstable, Bedfordshire.
Q: Do I attend class every day?
A: Each student will have a full weeks timetable, with up to 30 contact hours. You will be required to attend all classes without exception. You tuition hours each day may vary.
Q: What are the entry requirements for the course?
A: For Level 3 you do not need any experience to join the course, just a passion for performing arts and a willingness to learn. We do require each student to have 5 GCSEs at level 4 or above, and this must include Maths and English. For our Level 4 Professional Diploma course, you need to have completed a Level 3 qualification or A Levels, as well as GCSE Maths & English.
Q: How long is the course?
A: Level 3 is 2 years, Level 4 is 1 year.
Q: How much is the course?
A: The diploma qualification element to the course is fully funded by the Government for all 16-18 year olds. This is for 16 hours a week of guided learning. Private fees of £1995 inc VAT per academic year are paid directly to The PAD for the additional vocational training hours, plus LCM, ISTD & LAMDA qualification training, as well as the equivalent exam fees. Private fees are paid termly at £665 per academic term or via a pre-arranged payment plan.
Q: Will I need dance wear and uniform?
A: Yes you will need dance wear for each style of dance you participate in. You will be provided with a full dance wear list.
Q: Where can I purchase my dance wear?
A: The PAD has great contacts with dance wear providers and can order these direct with you. The course manager will be able to provide this for you.
Q: What qualification will I gain?
A: Students will gain either a Level 3, Extended Diploma in Performing Arts over the two year course or a Level 4 Professional Diploma in Performance for our 1 year course. You will also gain vocational qualifications in either Ballet, Tap, Modern, Singing or Acting building UCAS points which potentially will be the equivalent of 4 A levels.
Q: What experience do the teachers have?
A: Each member of our faculty have worked at the highest level from London's West End, National TV shows, European Tours and even having songs in the American Bill Board charts.
Credits include: Chicago, X Factor, Nutcracker, Billy Elliot, BRITs, Fame, MTV tour, Grease, Blood Brothers, We Will Rock You and more....
Q: Do I have to go into further education after the course?
A: We believe the next step after this two year course should be into vocational education. We understand that some students want to perform, some want to teach and some what to work behind the scenes. In all cases we feel that further education is a great next step but not a must. We will work with you to decided which step is best for you and how we can help you achieve this.
Q: Do I need to complete the full 2 years to gain the full qualification?
A: To achieve your full potential and obtain a Level 3 Extended National Diploma you do need to complete both years. That said each year is set to ensure you have achieved goals and gain qualifications at the end of each academic year (subject to passing units.)
