Page 17 - Sixth Form Courses 2026-2028

BTEC LEVEL 3 NATIONAL FOUNDATION DIPLOMA IN (1.5 A LEVEL EQUIVALENT)
MUSIC PRODUCTION

OVERVIEW This two-year programme of study is suitable for musicians with a practical
interest in the music industry. It will suit broad minded musicians who have a
thirst for all styles of music whether contemporary, commercial, classical or
avant-garde. Learning will be centred on practical music and using the recording
studio, exploring the subject creatively as an individual and in groups. There will be
a high level of music making and recording on the course. For those wishing to
develop their music production skills at university, this programme is an ideal
starting point. It is equivalent in size to one and a half A levels.
APPROACH There are two learning and teaching modules assessed through four assessment
units, with each assessment unit attracting a grade. Learners must complete all
mandatory assessment units and achieve a Pass grade or above in at least three
assessment units. Learning with instrumental teachers and participating in
ensemble will have relevance to all units, giving learners the opportunity to use
their full range of skills, interests and experience to further their qualification.
Students will also be expected to contribute to the organisation and running of
music events out of lessons and to spend additional time in the recording studio,
consolidating their studio skills. The course is internally assessed.

COURSE OUTLINE The main learning module is Music Production Skills Development and makes up
83% of the qualification. Learners will learn how to set up in the recording studio
and develop recording, mixing and DAW skills. They will compose and present
original material for at least two different mediums and contexts. They will explore
the various ways in which music technology can be used for live situations in two
main areas: live sound and performance using music technology. Learners will
develop their professional skills of organisation, listening, technical and conduct.
They will explore and develop ways to apply critical reflection. The remaining
module, The Music Industry, explores the main issues and opportunities that face
the music industry and the freelance world, and how these issues affect the future
in relation to an individual’s own practice. It develops the learner’s ability to carry
out an individual music industry research project, placing an individual’s own
practice into context.
FURTHER INFORMATION This course can be readily combined with a wide range of other courses or as an
integral part of a media/arts based curriculum.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS The essential entry requirements for BTEC Music Production is a minimum of 22
points from the best 5 GCSE grades.
Students should have a genuine curiosity for creative music making in groups and
a desire to learn about music technology in the music industry.
A Grade 4 or 5 on an instrument (or voice) is desirable.

EXAM BOARD AND 603/3072/7
SPECIFICATION BTEC Nationals | Music (2018) | Pearson qualifications

CONTACT Director of Music (Academic)
Mrs K Barry
barry.k@millfieldschool.com

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