BTEC Level 3 Music Course in Newton Abbot for 16 to 18 Year Olds

CostFree for 16 to 18 year olds
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

A sixth-form course for 16 to 18 year olds. Aged 19 or over? See Music Courses in Newton Abbot.

About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Music Course in Newton Abbot. Classes run at Newton Abbot College, full-time over two years.

This Level 3 BTEC music qualification covers music performance, musical skills development, and professional practice in the industry. You'll study units that develop both technical performance ability and the broader skills employers in the music sector expect. The course is designed to prepare you for work in music or for progression to higher education.

You'll finish with a Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Music.

Who this course is for

The Level 3 BTEC in Music allows students to become occupationally ready to take up employment in the music sector at the appropriate level. This can follow either directly after achieving the qualification, or via the stepping stone of Higher Education in university. By studying BTEC Music, students develop knowledge, understanding and skills required by the sector, including essential employability skills, and apply them in real work contexts.

Entry requirements

Students must have achieved a minimum of Grade 5 or above in both English and Mathematics and Grade 5 (equivalent) in at least 3 other GCSE/Level 2 qualifications. Students will need a Grade 5 (equivalent) or above in a Music related qualification. There may also be an audition process to qualify for the course. Students not taking Music or Performing Arts at GCSE can apply and all applications will be considered on the strength of the audition.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop your performance skills across your chosen instrument or voice.
  • You'll study music theory and how it applies to performance.
  • You'll explore professional practice in the music industry.
  • You'll learn how to work in real music contexts, applying skills as professionals do.
  • You'll build knowledge of the music sector and how it operates.
  • You'll develop essential employability skills relevant to music careers.

How you will learn

The course combines classroom teaching with practical performance work. Assessment includes a mix of internally assessed units and externally assessed components set by Pearson Edexcel. You'll build a portfolio of work and take part in performances. Some units are assessed through assignments and projects; others involve timed external tasks.

What you will need to bring

Newton Abbot College will confirm what you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Musician, performs as a solo artist or as part of an ensemble.
  • Music teacher, supports learners in schools or private settings with further qualifications.
  • Session musician, records and performs for other artists in a studio or live context.
  • Music production assistant, supports producers and engineers in a studio environment.
  • Events and touring crew, works on live music productions and artist tours.
  • Community music practitioner, delivers music workshops in community or educational settings.

What you could study next

  • A degree in Music or Music Performance (Level 6), the most common next step for those aiming for a professional performance or teaching career.
  • A foundation degree or HND in Music (Level 5), a shorter higher education route into music production, performance, or music business.
  • A Level 3 qualification in Music Technology, useful alongside this course for those interested in recording and production.

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