Nathan Sets Stage for Performing Arts Career at SERC

Pearson BTEC HND in Performing Arts student Nathan Irvine (18), from Newtownabbey, is studying at SERC to reach his goal of entering the performing arts industry. 

Nathan completed his GCSEs and A Levels at Ulidia Integrated College before enrolling at SERC. On why he chose SERC, Nathan comments, “When it was time to pick where I wanted to go for college, I went to several different places and checked out their open days. When I saw the facilities for performing arts at SERC, I thought “Wow, this is a place I want to go”. From there, I compared SERC to other colleges I had visited and realised the other places did not have performing arts facilities as good as SERC’s - so that just made SERC feel right for me.” 

On his course, Nathan says, “So far, it’s been really good. The course covers all aspects of performing arts – including acting, lighting classes, prop design, costume design, sound, and more, so there is something for everyone. The staff are so friendly, they provide you with everything you need and push you to do your best, as well as the tools to build towards any career you want in performing arts. After I complete my course, I’d like to go straight into industry, but it’s great to know I have the option to apply to university if I want as well.” 

"I really enjoy the independence we are given on my course and how we are not treated as just students. For example, our prop design module gave us so much freedom to go out and make the required prop with whatever materials we wanted. It made me feel so independent and I enjoyed it so much.” 

Nathan concludes, “If someone asked me if they should do the HND Performing Arts course at SERC I would tell them “Yes” in an instant. SERC has all the facilities that you need, and they provide so many pathways that can lead you into whatever career you want in the industry. You learn everything to do with performing arts, not just acting, which gives you a better appreciation for the arts. So, if you want to come to a college which properly teaches you about performing arts, then come to SERC.” 

Visit www.serc.ac.uk to unlock your future #BetterOffAtSERC.