Free BTEC Level 3 Music Course in Bournemouth. Classes run at Bamm, full-time during the day. This two-year Pearson Edexcel programme covers either Music Performance or Music Production, giving you a practical, skills-based route into the music industry or higher education. It carries the same weight as three A Levels. You'll need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Maths, to get started. The course covers performing, composition, music technology, the music industry, and self-promotion.
Who this course is for
The LeAF Studio is a specialist school in Sport and Performing Arts. Academic subjects are combined with training within a chosen sport or performing arts discipline. The LeAF Studio is about looking at each student as an individual, creating a personalised learning programme which takes into account individual needs and interests and motivates the student to gain relevant qualifications and skills as an athlete or in the performing and creative arts. The LeAF Studio approach is designed to maximise future employment opportunities and get students ready for university, an athletic career, performing arts or the world of work. Units offered include music production techniques, music events management, DJ performance techniques, live sound techniques, and the sound and music industry.
Entry requirements
5 GCSE passes including English and Maths
What you will learn
You'll develop live performance and ensemble skills working with other musicians.
You'll learn studio recording techniques and how music technology is used to create and produce music.
You'll study music theory, musicianship, and instrument-specific technique.
You'll explore composition, arrangement, and adapting musical styles.
You'll gain knowledge of the music industry, self-promotion, marketing, and networking.
You'll complete a personal project to showcase your individual skills and direction.
You'll build collaboration, leadership, and problem-solving skills through group and live events.
How you will learn
Learning is classroom-based and practical, delivered full-time over two years. Assessment is coursework-based, in line with the BTEC model. You'll build a portfolio of work across units covering performance, production, and industry knowledge. Projects, practical tasks, and collaborative events form the core of how your progress is assessed throughout the course.
What you will need to bring
You'll need standard stationery, a USB stick or SSD drive, headphones, and a headphone adapter. There is a £50 per year consumables contribution. Bamm will confirm any additional items required for your chosen pathway before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Session musician: performing recorded or live music for hire
Music producer: creating and recording tracks in a studio setting
Sound technician: managing audio for live events or recordings
Music teacher or tutor: teaching instrument or music theory
Studio engineer: operating recording equipment professionally
Events coordinator (music): organising live music performances
Artist manager: supporting musicians with promotion and bookings
What you could study next
Degree in Music or Music Production: a natural next step if you want to specialise further at university. Your Extended Diploma carries UCAS points equivalent to three A Levels.
Higher National Diploma (HND) in Music: a two-year higher education route, often available at colleges, focusing on practical and industry skills.
Degree Apprenticeship in Creative Industries: combines paid work with degree-level study in a music or creative business setting.
