Music RSL (Rock School) Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma for Music

Applications Open: Monday 3rd November 2025

Applications Close: Friday 24th July 2026

Entry Requirements: Our general entry requirements are:-

• A Levels – advanced courses, two year study programme, with an average entry requirement of at least five grade 5+ qualifications, including English and mathematics. Some subjects may have additional entry requirements.

• BTEC Level 3 – advanced courses, two year study programme, with an average entry requirement of at least five grade 4+ qualifications, including English and mathematics. Some subjects may have additional entry requirements.

• T Level - technical course, two year study programme, with an average entry requirement of at least five grade 5+ qualifications, including English and mathematics.

• BTEC Level 2 – One year programme, which could lead on to further studies, with an average entry requirement at least five grade 2 or above, including English and mathematics.

How to Apply: Please apply via Kent Choices

If applying to T Level Engineering, please include a second choice set of subjects within the same application.

Summary of skills students gain by studying this subject

The course is designed to prepare students to either launch a career in the music industry (as either a performer or sound engineer) or to pursue further study. Students will develop both their musical skills as well as their awareness of what it takes to succeed in music today.

Potential Topics that will be studied

Students will focus on one of two strands: Performance or Technology. The course is modular, with each strand having 3 mandatory modules, and several options. Each strand includes a module on establishing a career in music, as well as topics ranging from creative collaboration to recording to developing a more musical ear.

Assessment

The course is entirely coursework based. 33% of the coursework is Externally Assessed, the remainder is Internally Assessed, with portions sent to External Moderation. There is no sat examination

Additional Entry Requirements

Students must have a Pass at Level 2 Rock School Music or equivalent, or receive approval from the Head of Music.

Progression and career opportunities

It is an exciting time to be a practising musician. The traditional system of studios supporting a small number of superstars is fading, being replaced by a more DIY approach to music careers. Students will learn about how current musicians are making a living, from doing media-related work, to promoting themselves on social media, to marketing goods and services outside of the usual album/single format. Students can also choose to deepen their knowledge by going to university to study a course in music performance or technology.