About the HNC Performing Arts (Makeup Artistry in the Creative Industries) course
Learners will study Stagecraft working as part of backstage crew in a production. They will be introduced to the principles and practicalities of backstage team work during a live production, designing and creating special effects and illusions which play a large part in providing spectacular visual parts of a production. Make-up artists must be able to interpret the designs for the production and then understand how to use a range of techniques to achieve the desired effects required for successful characterisation. The make-up artist must be able to understand human anatomy and how to change the shapes of facial features and to apply specialised make-up to achieve desired effects for characters.
Learners will develop Fashion and Fashion editorial makeup designing abilities whilst developing the technical skills required to work within a diverse variety of contexts to industry standards. They will be required to explore the expertise and knowledge required for a makeup artist to work professionally within defined periods of history. Learners will be able to demonstrate how to recreate period designs and apply them with modern technology and tools, while producing a Period Makeup portfolio to meet industry standards.
Learners will develop a marketing strategy and online profile to enhance their future employability prospects, working towards a sustainable career in the performing arts industry. They will undertake a management role for a production of a live performance, enabling them to fully understand the responsibilities of the role to be undertaken and the management of staff. Learners will also be developed and prepared to take their first steps as a creative arts educator.
Learners will explore a wide range of skills appropriate for working as a freelance hair and/or makeup artist include the business roles and responsibilities, including working to a budget, time management, health and safety, teamwork, communication and working under pressure. Students will also explore the depth of research required to meet employer needs to ensure briefs are followed, fulfilled and developed where appropriate.
Teaching areas are well equipped and are fully resourced to enable the delivery of programmes at Level 4 and 5. The equipment in use reflects the standard available in industry. Specialist studios are available in the following areas:
- Specialist, media and fashion make-up
- Hairdressing
- Postiche and wig making
- Sculpting, casting, 3D
- Theatre production
Entry Requirements
Applicants will require a level 3 Media Hair & Make-up qualification equivalent to 45 UCAS points (Merit and above). Applicants are required to hold English and Maths GCSE (or equivalent) at Grade C/4.
Non-standard offer
TEC Partnership will also encourage applications from non-traditional learners who lack formal academic qualifications. Applicants will be expected to have the skills and experience within the following topic areas
- Fashion and Editorial Hair & Make-up.
- Special Effects Make-up to include casualty effects.
- Theatrical make-up.
- Body art.
- Hair styling and cutting skills.
All such non-traditional applicants will be:
- Required to successfully complete an interview with a course tutor.
- Invited to attend a workshop interview in which they will perform a practical based skills task, complete a theoretical test and share a portfolio of their work.
What you will learn
Level 4 units
Unit 1 – The Performing Arts Industry (Pearson-set)
Unit 2 – Professional Development (Core Unit Mandatory)
Unit 28 – Hair and Make-up Application (Specialist Unit Mandatory)
Unit 30 – Fashion and Fashion Editorial Hair and Make-up (Specialist Unit Mandatory)
Unit 25 – Special FX (Optional Unit)
Unit 31 – Period Hair and Make-up (Optional Unit)
Unit 67 – Make-up Aging Skills (Optional Unit)
Unit 68 – Body Art Application (Optional Unit)
Learning & Teaching Methods
- Face-to-face learning – Lectures and seminars, Workshops, Tutorials, Virtual Learning Environments (VLEs), Work-based learning (Studio/Theatre/NHS/Freelance), Practical – Case Studies, Live briefs, NHS Scenarios, Theatre productions, Photo shoots, Charity Events, production management, peer teaching/mentoring etc.
- Excursions and Educational Visits
Programme Benefits
Masterclasses delivered by industry specialist and partner colleges/guest colleges (World skills UK gold medal winner and Judge, Professional Drag Queens, Kryolan professional, NHS specialists)
Masterclasses and lectures delivered by Alumni.
What next?
Learners studying the Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC will be able to develop a portfolio of work which can contribute towards a progression to the Level 5 HND or a specialist/media hair and make-up BA top up degree and assist with entry in to employment specialising in media hair and make-up.
Employment routes:- Freelance Make-up Artist, Special Effects/Prosthetic Make-up Artist, Hair Stylist, Bridal Make-up Artist, Make-up Artist for Music Artists, Fashion and Editorial Photographic Artist, Make-up Artist, Commercial Body Artist, Wig maker and stylist, Theatrical Hair and Make-up Artist, TV and Film Hair and Make-up Artist, Make-up Designer, Medical Moulage Artist, Retail Make-up Artist and Company Manager/Representative.
Progression from this qualification may well be into a Level 5 HND or a specialist/media hair and make-up BA top up degree or within employment in the specialist and media hair and make-up industry where learners may work towards full membership of relevant professional associations, such as National Association of Screen Make-up Artists and Hairdressers (NASMAH), International Make-up Association (IMA), The British Association of Beauty Therapists and Cosmetologists (BABTAC), The Broadcasting, Entertainment, Cinematograph and Theatre Union (BECTU).