At KBA Sixth Form, we offer two exciting pathways for students interested in music and the creative industries. Whether you enjoy performing in front of an audience or are fascinated by recording, producing and engineering sound, there is a course to help you develop your talents and prepare for your future.
Both qualifications are equivalent in size to one A-Level and provide opportunities to develop practical skills, creativity, communication and teamwork.
COURSE 1: MUSIC PERFORMANCE
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Music Performance
Qualification Number: 601/7090/6
Course Leader: Peter Bridgwood – peterbridgwood@kba.uk
WHAT WILL I NEED BEFORE TAKING THIS COURSE?
Grade 5 in English and Maths, together with either Grade 5 GCSE Music or Grade 5 standard on an instrument or voice. Students who are working towards Grade 5 are also encouraged to apply and may be invited to audition. Previous study of Music at GCSE is not essential. All applications will be considered on their individual merits.
WHAT WILL I DO?
If you are passionate about performing and want to develop your performance skills alongside your other studies, this course is an excellent opportunity to build your confidence, musicianship and stage experience. Equivalent to one A Level, it is designed for aspiring instrumentalists and vocalists who enjoy performing, creating and collaborating with others.
You will take part in a range of practical performance projects, developing your technical ability, rehearsal skills and understanding of professional performance practice. Working both independently and as part of ensembles, you'll explore different musical styles while building the communication, creativity and teamwork skills valued across the creative industries.
Regular performance opportunities will help you grow as a musician and gain experience preparing, refining and presenting work to an audience. Whether you are considering University, specialist music training or a future career in performance, teaching or the wider music industry, this course provides an excellent foundation for your next steps.
WHAT WILL I STUDY?
You will develop your skills and understanding through practical music projects, including:
- Music Performance: Developing instrumental or vocal technique, musical expression and confidence.
- Rehearsal and Ensemble Skills: Working independently and collaboratively to prepare and refine performances.
- Musical Styles and Interpretation: Exploring different genres and developing your understanding of musical performance.
- Performance Preparation: Selecting repertoire, planning performances and preparing for live audiences.
- Professional Practice: Understanding the expectations and responsibilities of working as a performing musician.
- Creative Collaboration: Sharing ideas and working with other musicians on practical projects.
PROGRESSION
Possible progression routes include Music Performance and Music degrees, specialist music colleges, conservatoires, music teaching, performing, session musicianship, musical theatre and the wider creative industries.
COURSE 2: SOUND ENGINEERING
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Sound Engineering
Qualification Number: 603/1233/6
Course Leader: Peter Bridgwood – peterbridgwood@kba.uk
WHAT WILL I NEED BEFORE TAKING THIS COURSE?
Grade 5 in English and Maths. An interest in Music is essential, and some experience using a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) is preferred.
WHAT WILL I DO?
If you're fascinated by how music is recorded, mixed and produced, this course will give you the skills and experience needed to work confidently in a modern studio environment. Equivalent to one A Level, it is ideal for students who want to develop their understanding of recording technology.
You'll learn how to capture, edit and mix audio using industry-standard software and equipment, developing practical skills in microphone techniques, studio recording, signal flow and sound engineering. Through a range of hands-on projects, you'll gain experience of working with performers, setting up recording sessions and producing professional-quality audio.
The course combines technical knowledge with creative problem-solving, helping you develop the attention to detail, communication and teamwork skills expected within the music and audio industries. You'll also explore how studio engineers contribute to the production of music, podcasts, film soundtracks and other media projects.
WHAT WILL I STUDY?
You will develop your technical and creative skills through practical audio projects, including:
- Recording Techniques: Learning how to capture high-quality audio using microphones and recording equipment.
- Studio Practice: Setting up recording sessions and understanding the equipment and processes used in a professional studio.
- Digital Audio Workstations: Using music production software to record, edit and arrange audio.
- Mixing and Production: Developing skills in balancing sound, applying effects and creating polished recordings.
- Sound Engineering Principles: Understanding signal flow, audio equipment and the technical processes behind sound production.
- Creative Audio Projects: Applying your skills to music, podcasts, film soundtracks and other media productions.
PROGRESSION
Possible progression routes include Sound Engineering, Music Production and Audio Technology degrees, specialist training, studio recording, live sound, audio production, broadcasting, podcast production and the wider music and media industries.
WHICH MUSIC COURSE IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
Choose Music Performance if you enjoy playing an instrument or singing, want to develop your musicianship and love performing to an audience.
Choose Sound Engineering if you are interested in recording, mixing and producing music, enjoy working with technology and want to understand how professional sound is created.
Both courses offer an exciting opportunity to develop your talents, build confidence and take your first steps towards a future in the music and creative industries.