Why study this subject?

• Because you enjoy music as a subject at KS3 and enjoy the challenge of learning an instrument.
• Because music helps you develop your social skills, creativity, concentration, self-discipline and confidence.
• Because music has links to a wide range of subjects. The music industry is worth around £5.5 billion to the UK economy. There are hundreds of interesting jobs within the music industry.

Aims of the course

• To develop your interest in music and your practical skills.
• To develop knowledge and understanding by applying your learning and skills in a work-related context.
• To allow you to take responsibility for your own learning and to develop skills essential for the modern-day workplace. These skills include: team working; working from a prescribed brief; working to deadlines; presenting information effectively; and accurately completing administrative tasks and processes.

What can this course lead to?

• This course could set you on a path to becoming a music journalist, a talent scout, a sound or lighting technician, a promoter, a music therapist, an entertainment lawyer, road crew, an instrument maker, social media and digital music manager, TV or radio broadcaster OR EVEN A PERFORMER OR SONGWRITER.

• Further vocational and academic qualifications:

The achievement of the BTEC First Certificate level 2 has the equivalence of a GCSE graded 4-8. If you achieve a level 2 pass in the BTEC First Certificate in Music, it is possible for you to progress further to the BTEC First Diploma in Music or to move on to a higher level qualification such as a Level 3 BTEC National Certificate. It may also be the first step towards a course in Performing Arts, Musical Theatre, Music Technology, Events Management or other courses related to the creative industries.

Expectations of subject

• There are four units of work: The Music Industry (external exam); Creation of a musical product (concert or CD); performance and composition.
• Music is a performing art and there is, therefore, an expectation that students are committed to developing instrumental and/or vocal skills (through independent learning or with the support of an instrumental teacher) with a view to performing.

• Students taking this course should have the ability to sing or play to a reasonable standard.

• Homework will take the form of on-going development of instrumental skills: participation in some extracurricular activities and musical events; some written assignments.
• It is useful, but not essential, for students to have their own instrument to practise on at home. The music department is well-equipped with keyboards, drums, ukuleles and guitars so students have plenty of opportunity to practise at lunch and after school by arrangement.

Support and provisions

• ‘How to play…..’ YouTube videos and numerous other online resources.
• Independent visits to local music venues and larger scale concerts.
• Instrumental lessons are available at school through the East Sussex Music Service.
• Extracurricular music groups.