SQA COURSES

At Bellahouston Academy, our Expressive Arts faculty offers something for everyone – whether you dream of taking centre stage or prefer working behind the scenes. From acting, singing and musicianship to lighting, sound and set design, our courses are designed to suit a wide range of talents and interests.

Not sure which path is right for you? Take our quick and fun Expressive Arts Personality Quiz to discover which subject or role might suit you best.

Click the link to try it out – or scroll down to explore the full range of exciting courses we offer in Music, Drama, Musical Theatre, Technical Theatre, Art and Photography.

Discover your strengths, build your confidence and find your spotlight – wherever it may be.

NPA Technical Theatre

  • You will begin by learning about the different backstage roles in the theatre. This includes a trip out of school for a backstage theatre visit. After this, you will choose a role based on your interests and experience. If you're more creative or artistic, you might consider costume or props design. If you enjoy construction, set design could be for you. If you're interested in music or computing, you might prefer sound or lighting design.

    In your chosen role, you will help design and create the final production for the staff pantomime. This is a practical, hands-on project involving building and painting sets, making costumes and props, and designing and rigging lighting and sound.

    We will then attend the King’s Theatre pantomime and evaluate the differences between a professional production and our own.

  • This is the perfect progression if you have already studied:

    • Music, Drama, Art or Photography

    • Metalwork, woodwork, craft and design, graphic design

    • ICT, Computing, Video Games Design

  • This qualification is for anyone who enjoys being creative, working as part of a team and getting stuck into practical, hands-on tasks. You don’t need to be an expert in theatre – just bring your ideas, enthusiasm and willingness to try something new. Whether you're into art, music, tech, construction or just love the buzz of putting on a show, there’s a role for you. It’s a great choice if you like problem-solving, working behind the scenes and seeing your work come to life on stage. Most of all, it’s fun, varied and a brilliant way to be part of something exciting.

  • There is no final exam. This level 6 qualification is assessed through in class continued assessment, a portfolio and observation of the practical application of your technical role (lighting, set, costume, props etc).

    Units assessed:

    Theatre in Context

    Theatrical Design

    Lighting Operation

  • “I loved being part of the backstage team. I chose lighting design and learned how to use the equipment properly. It felt amazing seeing the lights I programmed during the show!”

    “I’m quite arty, so I went for costume design. It was so much fun sketching ideas and actually making them. I’d never used a sewing machine before, but now I feel confident.”

    “This course gave me a chance to be creative and practical at the same time. I helped build the set for the staff panto and learned loads about teamwork and planning.”

    “I didn’t think backstage work would be for me, but I ended up loving sound design. We got to use real theatre equipment, and the trip to the King’s was such a highlight.”

NPA Music Theatre

  • The SQA NPA in Musical Theatre is a fun, hands-on course that gives pupils the chance to develop their skills in singing, acting and movement through practical performance. It’s designed for learners who enjoy being creative and want to build confidence on stage while working as part of a supportive ensemble. The course focuses on developing real-world skills through rehearsals, workshops and live performance, and is perfect for anyone with a passion for musical theatre. Whether you’re aiming for a career in the performing arts or just want to challenge yourself in a practical and exciting way, the NPA offers a brilliant mix of learning and enjoyment.

  • This course is ideal for anyone who has completed a Level 5 qualification in Music or Drama and is looking to progress to Level 6 in a more practical, hands-on way than a traditional Higher.

    It’s also a great alternative to Advanced Higher or a valuable additional qualification for S6 pupils.

    If you’ve been involved in school shows but haven’t taken Music or Drama as a subject before, this is a fantastic opportunity to gain a Level 6 qualification by building on your existing experience and performance skills.

  • This course is perfect for anyone who enjoys performing and wants to develop their skills in singing, acting and movement. If you’ve taken part in school shows, love being on stage or want to build confidence in a fun, supportive environment, this is the course for you. It suits pupils who are creative, enthusiastic and ready to work as part of a team. Whether you’re planning a future in the performing arts or just want to try something new and practical in S6, Musical Theatre is a brilliant and rewarding choice.

  • There is no final exam. This level 6 qualification is assessed through in class continued assessment, a portfolio and observation of the practical performance elements.

    Units:

    Audition Skills

    Group Singing

    Solo Singing

  • “Musical Theatre was the highlight of my week. I got to perform, build confidence and work with people who loved the same things I did. It helped me find my voice. Literally!”

    “I wasn’t sure at first because I’d never done acting before, but the course made it easy to get involved. I loved the mix of singing, movement and drama. It really pushed me in the best way.”

    “Taking this course helped me get into college for performing arts. The practical side of it was brilliant, and it gave me loads of material for auditions and my portfolio.”

    “Even though I hadn’t taken Music or Drama before, I’d been in school shows. This course recognised that experience and gave me a qualification doing something fun.”

N3-5 Drama

  • National Drama is an exciting and practical course that puts you at the centre of the creative process. You’ll work in groups to explore character, voice, movement and stagecraft – devising scenes, rehearsing scripts, and performing for an audience. There’s also the chance to develop production skills like lighting, sound, costume or set design. With lots of opportunities for personalisation, this course helps you build confidence, communication and teamwork skills in a fun, supportive environment. If you enjoy being creative and working with others, National Drama is a brilliant choice.

  • You don’t need to have studied Drama before to take this course. An interest in performing, storytelling or backstage roles is a great place to start. Whether you’ve been in a school show, drama club, or just enjoy performing in S1/S2 class, you’ll build on that experience here. If you've already achieved CfE Level 3 in Drama, English or expressive arts, this course is a natural next step.

  • This course is perfect for anyone who enjoys performing, working as part of a team and being creative. If you like acting, telling stories, exploring characters or trying out different roles behind the scenes, Drama offers a chance to build those skills in a supportive and hands-on way. It suits confident performers as well as those looking to build self-esteem, communication skills and creative thinking

  • Assessment is a mix of practical and written work. You’ll be assessed on your ability to create and present drama, reflect on your work and understand drama techniques. This includes performances you devise as a group, script work, and production roles.

    • At National 3, all work is internally assessed.

    • At National 4, you’ll complete an Added Value Unit, usually a final group performance, which is also assessed in school.

    • At National 5, assessment includes a final performance exam (acting or production) marked by an SQA visiting examiner, and a written exam that explores your understanding of drama and production skills.

  • “Drama really helped me come out of my shell. I was nervous at first, but working in groups made it easier. Performing gave me a huge confidence boost.”

    “I liked that you could choose a production role if acting wasn’t your thing. I did lighting design and got to do lighting for my final exam. It was brilliant.”

    “We did a mix of scripts and our own scenes, so it always felt fun. It’s definitely not just for people who want to be on stage.”

    “The course was fun but also helped with real-life stuff like working with others and speaking up. It was way more than just acting.”

N3-N5 Music

  • National Music is a highly practical and creative course that lets you shape your own musical journey. Whether you love performing, composing or listening, this course gives you the freedom to focus on your strengths and develop new skills along the way. You’ll choose two instruments (or one instrument and voice) to perform on, explore different styles of music, and create your own compositions. It’s a fun, hands-on course that builds confidence, musicality and creativity – perfect for anyone who loves music and wants to take it further.

  • You don’t need to have formal grades or have studied Music before, but some experience on at least one instrument or voice is recommended. If you’ve enjoyed music in S1/2, taken part in school concerts, or have instrumental lessons in or out of school, this course will build on that. Students working around Grade 2 standard or above tend to progress well, but we welcome learners at all levels and support your development throughout.

  • This course is ideal for anyone who enjoys making music and wants to develop their skills further. If you play an instrument, sing, like writing your own music or simply love listening and discovering new sounds, Music is a great choice.

    It suits a wide range of learners – from confident performers to creative composers or those who enjoy learning by doing. It’s also a great option if you're thinking about a future in music, teaching, sound production or the wider creative industries.

  • Assessment includes performing, composing and understanding music:

    • At National 3, all work is assessed internally.

    • At National 4, you complete an Added Value Unit, where you prepare and perform two contrasting pieces.

    • At National 5, you complete:

      • A Performance Exam (50%) on two instruments (or voice and one instrument), marked by an external SQA examiner.

      • A Question Paper (35%) testing your listening and music literacy skills.

      • A Composition Assignment (15%), where you create your own piece and reflect on your process.

  • “I loved getting to perform music I chose myself. The performance exam felt more like a gig than a test!”

    “Before this course I didn’t know anything about composing, but now I’ve written and recorded my own music. It’s amazing hearing something you made from scratch.”

    “Music helped me with confidence and focus. Playing in front of people used to be scary, but now it’s something I enjoy.”

    “Even if you’re not the best player, the teachers help you get better. I picked music because it’s fun and different from other subjects.”

Higher Drama

  • Higher Drama is a creative and challenging course that offers plenty of choice and practical learning. You’ll have the chance to explore a wide range of scripts, devise your own work, and take on roles both on stage and behind the scenes. Whether you’re passionate about acting, directing or production skills, you’ll shape the course to match your interests and grow as a confident, expressive performer. It’s a lively, collaborative subject that develops communication, critical thinking and creativity – all while having fun and putting on great work.

  • Pupils should have successfully completed National 5 Drama or have equivalent experience in school productions or youth theatre. A strong work ethic, creativity and willingness to take part in both practical and written work are essential. You should be working towards or have achieved Higher English as the written element of this course is comparable.

    If you're confident performing, enjoy working in groups and are ready to take your drama skills further, Higher Drama is a natural next step.

  • Higher Drama is ideal for pupils who love performing and want to explore theatre in more depth. It’s also great for those interested in directing, design or analysing drama. If you're enthusiastic, open-minded and enjoy working creatively with others, this course will give you the chance to express yourself and build key life skills. Whether you're considering a future in the arts or just enjoy drama as part of a balanced timetable, it’s a rewarding and engaging subject.

  • Assessment is a mix of practical performance and written work:

    • Performance Exam (60%) – You’ll perform two contrasting acting pieces, or take on a production role, in front of a visiting SQA examiner.

    • Written Exam (40%) – You’ll complete two papers: one on drama skills in performance and another analysing a play you’ve studied.
      Throughout the course, you’ll also take part in practical workshops, group discussions, rehearsals and teacher-led feedback sessions to help you prepare.

  • “Higher Drama helped me grow in confidence. It’s creative, supportive and never boring!”

    “I chose a directing role for my final exam and it was the most challenging and rewarding thing I’ve done in school. You really get to take ownership of your ideas.”

    “The written exam sounds scary at first, but you learn how to talk about drama and get to go to the Edinburgh Fringe. It helped me think more deeply about the plays we saw and performed.”

    “There’s something for everyone – acting, production, design – and you get to work with people who are just as passionate as you. It’s hard work but totally worth it.”

Higher Music

  • Higher Music is a dynamic and rewarding course that allows you to personalise your learning and build on your strengths. You’ll perform regularly on two instruments or voice, develop your listening and analysis skills, and compose your own music. With a wide choice of musical styles and genres, you’ll deepen your understanding of music while continuing to grow as a performer and creative thinker. The course is practical, flexible and full of opportunities to showcase your talents – perfect preparation for further study or simply for enjoying music at a higher level.

  • Pupils should have achieved National 5 Music or be working at a similar level of musical ability. You’ll need to be confident on two instruments (or one instrument and voice), ideally around Grade 3 standard or above. A willingness to practise, explore new music and engage in both practical and written elements is essential for success at this level.

  • This course is ideal for pupils who are passionate about music and want to take their skills further. If you enjoy performing, composing, listening to a wide range of music or want to understand how music works, Higher Music is a brilliant next step. It suits independent learners, creative thinkers and anyone looking to challenge themselves while doing something they love. Whether you're aiming for a career in music or simply want to enjoy and improve your musicianship, this course offers something for everyone.

  • Assessment includes performance, composition and listening:

    • Performance Exam (50%) – You’ll perform a programme of music (12 minutes total) across two instruments or voice, assessed by a visiting SQA examiner.

    • Question Paper (35%) – You’ll demonstrate your knowledge of music concepts and literacy through listening and analysis.

    • Composition Assignment (15%) – You’ll create your own piece of music and write a short commentary explaining your creative decisions.
      Throughout the course, you’ll take part in rehearsals, class performances, music theory work and composition tasks to build your confidence and skills.

  • “Higher Music gave me the chance to play the kind of music I love while improving my technique.”

    “I really enjoyed the freedom to compose in my own style. ”

    “The listening part helped me understand music in a whole new way. I notice things in songs now that I never picked up on before.”

    “It’s hard work, but if you love music, it never feels like a chore. You get so much support and time to focus on what you're good at.”

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