Music A Level

NEW Applications for September 2027

Applications Open - Monday 2nd November 2026

Applications Close - Monday 5th April 2026 at 5pm

Entry Requirements - A minimum of six separately identifiable GCSE subjects at grade 6 or above OR an average of grade 6 in the best six GCSE subjects achieved

At least a grade 5 in both English and Mathematics For most subjects at A Level, a grade 6 in the subject at GCSE is required. However, for A Level Mathematics a grade 7 is required, and for Further Mathematics a grade 8 is necessary

How to Apply - Applications can be made through Kent Choices

Please contact us directly if you have any questions - contact sixthformrecruitment@nks.kent.sch.uk

Open Evening

Thursday 14th January 2027: 6pm - 8pm

Presentations at 6:30pm & 7:30pm

No booking necessary.

Open Mornings - Please visit our school website to book a slot for the open mornings www.nks.kent.sch.uk

Thursday 19th November 2026 9am - 12pm

Thursday 10th December 2026 9am -12pm

Please visit our website for information on consultation meeting if you would like to visit the school and talk to a member of the Sixth Form Team - https://www.nks.kent.sch.uk/page/?title=Sixth+Form+Admissions&pid=33

Music A Level allows students to pursue their own interest in terms of performance, developing their skills as musicians and performers. Both solo and ensemble performances are permitted, the choice being that of the students.

Complementing this practical element are composition and appraising skills.

Having one of the two compositions from a brief, the other being free choice echoes the format of GCSE, forming a smooth transition between the two qualifications. Similarly, the appraising echoes that taken at GCSE, requiring a more in-depth analysis at A Level.

All skills acquired and used to study music at A Level; teamwork, analysis, communication, resilience make music an excellent supporting and contrasting subject choice.

Performing: 10-12 minutes of performance of a minimum of 3 pieces. This can be as a soloist, part of an ensemble or both. (35% exam total)

Composing: 4-6 minutes. One must be from a set brief given in Sept of Year 13, the other is a free choice. (25% of exam total)

Appraising: 3 areas from the list below.

Area A: (Compulsory) The development of the symphony 1750 - 1900

One of:

Area B: Rock and Pop

Area C: Musical Theatre

Area D: Jazz

Either:

Area E: Into the 20th Century

Area F: Into the 21st Century

Performing: 10-12 minutes of performance non exam assessment

Composing: 4-6 minutes submission to board non exam assesmment

Appraising Exam: 2 hours 15 minutes (40% of exam total)

GCSE grade 6 in Music, the ability to perform to grade 5 in a musical instrument or the equivalent aptitude with a sound knowledge of the theory, a grade 5 in theory or willing to work towards this in Year 12.

Teaching, composing, arranging, recording, reviewing, administrating, marketing, archiving, Performing Arts. Music is highly regarded by university admissions for all subjects as it involves many disciplines and demonstrates a wide range of skills.