Music Technology A Level

Applications Open - 20 November 2025 at 8am

Applications Close - 6 February 2026 at 15:00 (Except Beauty L2 which closes on the 22nd May).

General Entry Requirements:

Our level 3 Sixth Form entry requirements are five GCSEs at Grades 9-4 including Maths and English minimum Grade 4. However, please read the course information, which, provides specific details of course content and entry requirements.

For level 2 courses please read the course information.

Subjects: -

Level 3 - Enter your choices in order of preference for Level 3 courses. Students need to select the equivalent of 3 courses (Triple counts as 3), with 2 reserve options if selecting Level 3 courses. Year 12 are expected to study the equivalent of three subjects. Once we close to applicants on the 6 February the options selected will be reviewed and if required we will be in contact.

Level 2 - just add the course required, eg beauty, finance or fitness. However, please look up all entry requirements for individual subjects as some subjects require specific subjects and grades.

Timetable Blocks- Please read carefully: Level 3 Courses Please select 3 subjects and 2 reserve subjects by placing them in a ranked order/ or a Pathway. Once applications close we will review all subjects requested and may be in contact at this time to discuss your chosen subjects further.

Additional optional qualifications such as Arts Award (Gold),Core Maths, Further Maths and the EPQ are not applied for at the Kent Choice stage further information will be provided in the 6th Form induction if you would like to undertake this course in addition to your core qualifications.

How to Apply - Via Kent Choices or through link on our website https://www.hernebayhigh.org/sixth-form/how-to-apply

Further Information: We reserve the right to withdraw courses if insufficient numbers are attracted.

Any queries, please contact 6form@hernebayhigh.org

A Level Music Technology is a hands-on, creative course where you'll learn how music is recorded, produced, and shaped using modern technology. You'll complete four components- two coursework projects and two final exams- building real skills for college, careers, or just making great music.

Component 1: Recording (20%) In this project, you will have the opportunity to record and mix a professional-sounding track using live instruments. You will choose one song (from a prescribed list of 10 provided by Edexcel) and take full control of the recording process- setting up microphones, capturing audio, and using effects and automation to bring it all together. This is where you learn how to engineer a session and produce a polished final mix.

Component 2: Technology-Based Composition (20%) This is your chance to get creative. You’ll compose an original track based on a choice of briefs, using synthesis, sampling, and effects to build your own sounds. You’ll sequence and arrange your ideas using music production software, developing your skills in sound design, composition, and structuring a complete piece. It’s all about creating something unique using the tools of a modern producer.

Component 3: Listening and Analysing (25%) This written exam helps you build critical listening skills. You’ll explore how professional recordings are made and how production techniques have evolved over time. You’ll listen to a range of unfamiliar tracks, break down the techniques used, and explain how producers create specific sounds. You’ll also write short essays that show your understanding of recording, sound theory, and the development of music technology.

Component 4: Producing and Analysing (35%) This is the most technical part of the course and a great test of everything you’ve learned. In the final exam, you’ll be given audio and MIDI tracks to edit, process, and mix into a finished product. You’ll fix issues, add creative touches, and shape the overall sound. You’ll also answer questions about your production choices, hardware, effects, and mixing techniques.

You’ll explore music technology through a hands-on and analytical approach, learning how music is created, recorded, and produced using a wide range of tools and techniques. This includes understanding how sound works, how technology influences music, and how producers make creative and technical decisions. You’ll develop skills to critically evaluate recordings and productions, challenge assumptions about how music is made, and gain insight into both the creative and scientific sides of the industry.

You will learn through classroom lessons and hands-on work in our industry-standard recording studio. Assessment includes two coursework projects and two exams: a 1.5-hour listening and analysing paper, plus a 2-hour-15-minute producing and analysing practical exam where you mix and produce tracks using provided audio and MIDI files.

2 Year Course - Normally 5 GCSEs at grades 9-4, including English and Math (minimum grade 4). While prior experience in music or technology is not required, a genuine interest or involvement in music- whether playing, composing, or producing- is highly desirable and will help you thrive on the course.

The A Level in Music Technology opens doors to higher education and careers in music production, sound engineering, composition, live sound, media, and more. Whether you want to work in the music industry or continue your studies at university, this course gives you the creative and technical skills to succeed. No prior music technology experience is required- just a passion for music.