A Level

The course follows the Edexcel exam syllabus via distance learning. The course is taught via weekly lessons in small groups using Skype, as well as bespoke one-to-one composition tutorials with specialist composers in the South West, on top of any instrumental tuition they may be getting. One of the distinctive high points of the course is termly visits on a Saturday to Junior Trinity in the Royal Naval College, Greenwich, where South West Music School A Level students are able to have their compositions critiqued, played and recorded by Junior Trinity students.

The course is managed by Penny Davis, who is the GCSE and A Level Programme Manager for Junior Trinity. Students benefit from a wealth of A Level teaching experience from academic tutors who are or have been Heads of Music in schools and colleges and examiners for A Level examination boards. Junior Trinity enters around 50 students every year for GCSE and A Level examinations – SWMS students become part of this cohort.

Our results have been outstanding, with 77% of SWMS students receiving grades A or A* in both AS and A2.

Are you suited to our A Level course?

Most students are in the 16-18 age group and are following other academic courses at school or college; occasionally we accept highly-motivated students who are a year younger. Students need to be independent and self-motivated, working confidently on their own, but at the same time will always be in close contact with their tutors through email and Skype. The bonus is that everyone gets to know each other very well and tutors can cater individually for students’ needs in order to support them and develop their specific interests.

The course is usually partly funded by your budget if you are a South West Music School grant holding student.

If you would like further information about the A Level programme please email Tracy on t.hill@swms.org.uk.