in partnership with
September 2027 enrolment now open
BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing Arts
Study the Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Performing Arts with Virtual Learning UK at its RSUK campus, alongside RSUK’s specialist performing arts environment and optional Elite Top-Up training. The programme is delivered and managed by Virtual Learning UK, which includes the education, enrichment and qualification delivery. VLUK employ all teaching and enrichment staff.
Book an Open DayLimited 2026 places
There’s still time to join us!
The September 2026 programme delivered by Virtual Learning UK at its RSUK campus is now underway, but a small number of places may still be available.
If you’re aged 16–19 and are still considering your options, haven’t found the right programme, or have started somewhere that doesn’t feel right, there may still be time to join us.
Contact the RSUK team to arrange a visit or discuss the campus, audition opportunities and optional Elite Top-Up training. Education and qualification information is provided by Virtual Learning UK.
Enquire about joining now
Why choose RSUK?
RSUK provides a specialist performing arts campus environment, professional facilities, performance opportunities and an optional Elite Top-Up programme designed to complement the education delivered by Virtual Learning UK.
Specialist Performing Arts Campus
Train in a purpose-built creative environment with access to RSUK’s performance spaces, studios and resources.
Small Supportive Community
A welcoming campus environment that supports individuality, confidence and creative development.
Productions & Performances
Take part in RSUK productions, main-stage performances and industry-facing opportunities.
Professional Facilities
Access specialist studios, performance spaces, recording equipment and creative resources at the RSUK campus.
What you'll gain
Virtual Learning UK delivers and manages the education, enrichment and qualification at its RSUK campus. Students study in a specialist performing arts setting with access to RSUK facilities, productions and performance opportunities.
VLUK-Delivered Qualification
For current qualification, programme and entry information, please refer to the official Virtual Learning UK course page.
RSUK Campus Experience
Study in a specialist performing arts environment with access to RSUK facilities and creative resources.
Optional Elite Top-Up
Choose 12 additional hours each week of separate RSUK performance, production and career-development activity.
Performance Opportunities
Develop your experience through RSUK productions, showcases and industry-facing opportunities.
Course Details
Find out more about the VLUK-delivered BTEC programme and the separate RSUK Elite Top-Up training.
Funded BTEC ProgrammeOfficial qualification information from VLUK
Funded BTEC Programme
The programme is delivered and managed by Virtual Learning UK.
Official Programme Information
Qualification and course information is available on the official VLUK course page.
RSUK Elite Top-Up TrainingOptional extracurricular professional performance training
Dance & Movement
- Ballet Technique
- Tap Dance Technique
- Commercial Dance
- Contemporary Dance
- Dance Health
- Movement Skills
Performance & Production
- Physical Theatre Techniques
- Stage & Sound
- Lighting Design & Operation
Industry & Career
- Accounting for Performers
- Professional Showreels
- Script Work & Analysis
- Songwriting
- Management Skills
- Stage Management
Entry Requirements
- Please refer to the official Virtual Learning UK course page for current entry and qualification information
Fees & Support
The core qualification is fully funded. Additional elite training is optional.
Core BTEC
See VLUK
See VLUK weeklyFunding, eligibility and programme information are managed by Virtual Learning UK.BTEC + Elite Top-Up
£2,000/yr
+12 hrs weekly12 additional hours of separate RSUK training, masterclasses, one-to-one work and showcases.Payment OptionsSee annual, termly and monthly choices
- Annual: £2,000 at the start of the year
- Termly: 3 × £666.66
- Monthly: £182
Bursaries & ScholarshipsFinancial support that may be available
RSUK Bursaries
Means-tested Riverside bursaries can support families with top-up costs. Awards are considered after an offer and may cover part or all of the contribution.
Talent Scholarships
Talent scholarships may cover 20%–100% of top-up fees and are awarded with course offers based on talent and potential.
VLUK 16–19 Fund
For current bursary and learner-support information, please refer to Virtual Learning UK.
Open Days & Auditions
For September 2027 entry
Open Evening
Wednesday 14 October 2026
5pm
Audition Workshop
Sunday 1 November 2026
12pm
Open Evening
Wednesday 11 November 2026
5pm
Audition Workshop
Sunday 29 November 2026
12pm
BTEC Media
Your stage is waiting
Visit the RSUK campus, meet the team and experience the facilities. For official education, qualification and entry information, please refer to Virtual Learning UK.