Pupils
Level 2 Vocational Course: Music
Course Information
| Literacy | **** |
| Numeracy | *** |
| Communications | *** |
| Creativity | **** |
| Practical | ***** |
| Group Work | *** |
| Examination Assessment | 0% |
| Non Examination Assessment | 100% |
| EBacc | x |
| Examination Board | Eduqas |
| Course | Level 2 |
Level 2 Vocational Course: Music
General Information
This vocational course is offered by Eduqas. The Level 2 award is an alternative pathway but is an equivalent to GCSE and is graded Pass, Merit, Distinction and Distinction*. The qualification is recognised by colleges.
The course allows pupils to develop in depth understanding of the music sector, and the variety of aspects involved. Pupils will gain knowledge of a range of musical styles and develop musical skills and techniques. The course takes a practical approach through exploration of musical performance, composition, technology, and events planning.
This course is suitable for pupils who have a passion and enjoyment for music but may just be starting out on an instrument or have not yet started but have a strong interest. Pupils may also be interested in this course if they prefer coursework over exams, with the work submitted for this qualification being 100% coursework. If you play an instrument to a high level, then the GCSE option may be a more suitable option to consider.
What will I need to succeed?
- To enjoy listening to and learning about many different styles of music.
- To enjoy performing (singing or playing) in any style – it is not crucial that you have instrumental lessons already, but you must have an interest in one specific instrument or voice.
- To enjoy creating and recording your own music.
- To enjoy using music technology
- To enjoy working on your own and with others
Expected Subject Content
Level 2 Performing Arts with the music pathway requires pupils to complete three units. The qualification is 100% coursework, with two internally assessed units, and one externally assessed unit.
Unit 1: Performing (Internal)
Unit 2: Creating (Internal)
Unit 3: Performing Arts in Practice (External)
Unit 1: Performing
Pupils will research, rehearse, and perform an existing piece of music on their chosen instrument either as a soloist or as a band. They will explore how to rehearse effectively and refine their performance through a reflective journal, all in preparation for a performance of their finished piece.
Unit 2: Creating
This component allows pupils to explore a variety of genres of music and gain the understanding and skills needed to create a successful piece of original music. Pupils will then use music technology or live instruments to compose their own piece of music to a given brief.
Unit 3: Performing Arts in Practice
Pupils will be given a brief by the exam board, and from this they will plan their own music event. They will draw upon the skills learned in units 1 and 2, planning, creating and rehearsing musical works suitable to be showcased at the event. Alongside this, pupils will explore the other aspects involved in an industry commission, including marketing, resources and job roles and responsibilities.
What careers it can lead to after leaving Swanmore College
You could go on to study another vocational course at colleges such as Fareham College or Havant and South Downs. This includes courses in music production, if you are interested in music technology and music performance, specialising on any pop/rock instrument or vocals. Barton Peveril and Peter Symonds also both offer a popular music performance course as well as music technology and production courses.
The vocational music course demonstrates many transferable skills including self-discipline, communication, adaptability, and creativity.
You can go on to study music at universities, with courses in popular music performance, music technology, composition or recording and production being a few of the possibilities on offer.
Examples of careers in music include a performer, composer, sound engineer, tour manager, music arranger, music publicist, DJ, and concert promoter.