Staff of the school encourage learners to take ABRSM grade exams, and use the requirements (scales, 3 pieces, sight-reading and aural tests) as a structure to learning. Whilst no pupil will ever be compelled to take exams, we feel that they are a useful aid to learning, assess a good range of skills, and are competently and intelligently marked and administered by the examination board.

UCAS points

Higher grade exams (6, 7 & 8) are UCAS-registered and good marks can make very helpful contributions to UCAS scores for students seeking a place in Higher Education. This is an initiative we endorse because it helps GCSE and ‘A’- level students to see their instrumental learning as a part of their overall education programme and can help avoid a conflict of interests. It also awards such students with the recognition they deserve for learning a musical instrument to a high standard.