The Purcell School has announced its intention to introduce the RSL Level 3 Diploma in Creative Music Industries as a new Sixth Form pathway.

To be launched in September, it will see the UK's oldest specialist music school become the first in its sector to offer the industry-focused qualification in its ongoing commitment to preparing young musicians for an increasingly diverse professional landscape.

Designed

The RSL Diploma is a nationally recognised vocational qualification designed to give students a thorough understanding of how music is created, performed, produced and managed in creative industries.

It is designed to provide a flexible, practical alternative to traditional academic routes through project-based assessments, portfolio development and creative briefs.

Four pathways

The school will offer the diploma across four specialist pathways — Pop Performance, Classical Performance, Composition and Music Production. Each will be tailored to the strengths and interests of students, who will also be able to combine the course with A Levels in one or two other subjects.

Areas of study include collaborative performance, recording and production techniques, creative entrepreneurship, self-promotion, event planning and career sustainability.

This approach is intended to mirror professional practice and will enable students to build a portfolio demonstrating their skills, versatility and industry awarenessThe Purcell School

Mirror professional practice

A spokesperson told 4BR: "This approach is intended to mirror professional practice and will enable students to build a portfolio demonstrating their skills, versatility and industry awareness."

On completion they will receive a nationally recognised RSL Diploma (equivalent to three A Levels), supporting progression to university or conservatoire study as well as directly into the dynamic and varied world of the music profession.

Future facing

Andrew Williams, Head of Academic Music at The Purcell School, added: "The RSL Diploma has the potential to allow us to offer students a truly holistic and future-facing music education.

We are excited about the possibility of bringing this opportunity to The Purcell School and of leading the way among specialist music schools in the UK."