Level 3 Certificate in Speech and Drama: Performance Studies (PCertLAM)
Qualification Suite
PCertLAM
Levels
Unit 1, Unit 2
Regulatory Status
Ofqual, Qualifications Wales and CCEA Regulation
Assessment Format
Available in-person and online
Take your skills up a gear through advanced study and performance.
About the exam
Combining practical assessment with independent research and creative exploration, this qualification encourages learners to deepen their knowledge, strengthen their practice, and prepare for future opportunities in education and beyond.
Our Level 3 Certificate in Speech and Drama: Performance Studies (or PCertLAM for short) is comprised of two units: a written assessment in the form of a Portfolio of Evidence (Unit 1), and a practical element in the form of a recital performance (Unit 2),
After drawing together their research in the portfolio of evidence, learners are able to demonstrate their technical and interpretive skills as they perform the pieces chosen for their recital. This qualification is a great option for learners who want to take their performance studies one step further.
Type of exam:
Solo
The unit involves:
A 5,000-6,000-word written assignment called a Portfolio of Evidence. The portfolio will document the process of preparing a recital, based around a theme of the learner’s own choice. The learner will then perform this recital in Unit 2.
For full details, use the Level 3 Certificate in Speech and Drama: Performance Studies Syllabus (published 2026).
Type of exam:
Solo
Time allowance:
60 minutes
The unit involves:
- Performing a recital consisting of four pieces, and linked together through an introduction, a linking statement and a conclusion (the recital must be the same recital detailed in the Portfolio of Evidence submitted for Unit 1)
- Sight-reading a text
- Answering questions about the performance
For full details, use the Level 3 Certificate in Speech and Drama: Performance Studies Syllabus (published 2026).
How to book
Learners may choose to complete the units in any order, although we recommend they are completed in sequential order.
Submit the PCertLAM Application Form for each unit entered. This means, to enter both units, it must be submitted twice when you are ready to enter each.
Before beginning your entry, please read the instructions below carefully.
- Submit the PCertLAM Application Form first, completing the sections for Unit 1 (Note: you may also submit for Unit 2 at the same time)
- When you’re ready, send your Portfolio of Evidence (including Microsoft Word and PDF versions) and an Assignment/Portfolio of Evidence Declaration Cover Sheet declaring authenticity of the learner’s work, via email to [email protected]
- We will then create an examination event for you, which generates an invoice to be paid for your examination
Learners may submit their Unit 1 assignment at any time.
- Submit the PCertLAM Application Form, completing the sections for Unit 2. (Note: this can be completed at the same time as you submit for Unit 1).
- Once you’ve submitted your application form, you’ll then need to book your assessment via ExamTrack.
- As Unit 2 is a recital performance, learners will be assessed at a Public or Private Centre either in-person or remotely.
Results will be sent out within 6 weeks of the examination date.
