National Progression Awards

Professional Theatre Preparation

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NPA Professional Theatre Preparation SCQF level 6

The SQA National Progression Awards (NPAs) are industry and sector specific courses aimed at developing skills and knowledge in preparation for further study or employment.

The course is Level 6 in the Scottish Qualifications Framework, the same level as Highers. NPAs can also attract UCAS points for those interested in applying to higher education.

The NPA in Professional Theatre Preparation is designed to equip candidates with an introduction to the knowledge, understanding and skills required for progression to further qualifications and/or potential employment within the performing arts industry.

Course Outline

The course is made up of two units:

  • Drama: Acting Skills - This Unit is designed to help candidates understand the overall acting process. Candidates will be given the opportunity to develop and demonstrate acting skills through practical, imaginative and creative exploration. They will be introduced to the key acting skills through exploration of the self, others and environments, using a range of exercises. Candidates will then be required to develop a character from either text or observation, exploring in some detail the depth of this character. The Unit provides candidates with opportunities to evaluate the acting process and their own individual strengths and areas for development.

  • Preparation for Audition - This Unit is designed to prepare candidates for the audition process. For the purpose of the Unit, candidates will prepare and perform an audition for the assessor. In addition, the candidate will have the opportunity to develop knowledge and understanding and a broad overview of the type of work available within the performing arts sector. An important focus of the Unit is self evaluation, both during the preparation for the audition when the candidate will identify personal strengths and areas for development and then reviewing the audition process, evaluating progress and setting future targets.

    NOTE: Those who already have the NPA Musical Theatre will not need to be re-assessed for the ‘Preparation for Audition’ Unit.

Class Details

For those who have already completed the NPA Musical Theatre, the course will run from August 2025 - February 2026. Classes will take place on Saturdays, 9.30am - 12.30pm. Times are subject to change in relation to guest tutor visits, performances, and presentations. For those also undertaking the Preparation for Audition Unit the course will run until May 2026. A detailed timetable will be provided upon enrolment.

Assessment

The course is assessed using a range of assessments including, but not limited to, a performance showcase, presentations, and written assignments. Units (and the overall award) are graded as pass or fail.

Award

Upon successful completion, candidates will receive the National Progression Award in Professional Theatre Preparation.

Entry Requirements

NPA Professional Theatre Preparation is open to all those in S2 and beyond.

Students should be committed to working at SCQF Level 6 (the same as Higher) and have a flexible and mature attitude to learning. Students will be required to undertake some work outside of class / session times and should ensure they have enough time alongside any other commitments to complete this.

Entry to the course is via audition. Auditions for 2025/26 entry will be held on Saturday the 14th of June 2025, 12pm till 3pm. Audition packs are issued upon enrolment. Enrolment is open now and will close on Sunday the 8th of June 2025.

Course Fees

Our NPA course is priced at £450. (£300 for those who have already completed NPA Musical Theatre)

This includes:

  • All teaching classes

  • All 1 to 1 sessions (where applicable)

  • All workshops with industry experts.

  • Registration and assessment fees

The fee can be paid in one amount or over 10 monthly payments.