A Level in Music
at Ferndown Upper School, Ferndown · school or sixth form
What the college says
In this course we endeavour to inspire students to pursue further studies in music, which will bring them a deeper overall understanding and experience of music making. Similar to GCSE, there are 3 components; composition, performance and appraisal. At A-Level however, students will develop those skills even further to achieve this qualification. They will show their creativity and resourcefulness in compositions which require planning and experimentation, whereas in performance they are required to be dedicated in developing their technique and interpretative skills, with high attention to detail. Private one to one music tuition is strongly recommended in order to successfully complete the performance component in this course. In the appraisal component, students analyse a series of set works using their scores, and studying their context. By understanding music in historical and cultural contexts, and how it evolves in the present, we develop even further our critical thinking and awareness of music as an art form and entertainment.
What you need to get on
5 GCSE Passes Grades 4-9 inc English and Maths. 5+ in Music (if taken) and grade 5 standard on an instrument.
How you are assessed
Academic subjects, mostly exams, three or four at once. The traditional route to university.
What this level means
The A-level-equivalent step, and what universities and employers ask for.
Is it open to 16 to 18 year olds?
Approved for 16 to 18 study on the government's Section 96 list.
Where it runs
Ferndown Upper School
Cherry Grove, Ferndown, BH22 9EY
DaytimeClassroom basedCheck the journey
Start dates
- 1 September 2026 · Ferndown
Who else teaches this exact qualification
Same qualification, different college. Entry requirements and how it is taught can differ a lot between them, which is the whole reason to compare.
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