Alternative Provision at Higher Rhythm

Higher Rhythm is a registered Alternative Provision on the Doncaster Local Authority framework and works with a wide-range of other organisations as an AP provider. 

Sound Station, our alternative schooling provision programme, is an exciting extra-curricular learning option for young people aged 14 to 24.

Learners gain creative-industry accreditation and develop transferable 21st century skills. They work in a real-industry environment, offering a unique educational setting for programme participants. Our alternative schooling is designed to: 

Sound Station

Our Sound Station programme, doesn’t require any prior experience. In 1 x 5 hour day per week over 12 weeks, young people work towards achieving a Bronze Level, Trinity College London Arts Award. 

The programme provides learning opportunities around the exciting industry of sound engineering. Specifically, young people will:

★ Learn how to produce music in a pro recording studio.

★ Enjoy creating music through working with other young people.

★ Get a recognised certification for their achievements.

Sound Station Plus

Beyond Sound Station, the next tier is, Sound Station Plus.

Our Sound Station Plus programme, is a 24-week provision (1 x 5 hour day per week). This is accredited by the Silver Arts Award, Trinity College London, evidencing measurable progression made by young people.

The programme builds on the practical experiences introduced during the initial 12-week Sound Station programme. This provides the opportunity for young people to further develop their creative, digital, and transferable skills.

Learners will further knowledge of recording music in a pro studio, producing industry-level results, and explore audio production for radio. Specifically, young people will:

★ Produce industry-quality music and make features for radio.

★ Use the creative skills developed to support other young people.

★ Get a recognised certification for their achievements.

Music Industry Skills

The BTEC Level 2 Award in Music Industry Skills is a 90 GLH course designed for learners who are looking for an introductory study in Music either as a part-time short course or alongside other areas of study. It can be used for learners looking to re-enter education and want an introduction to the skills in the sector.

This qualification supports progression to larger Level 2 qualifications, including the Level 2 Certificate, Extended Certificate, and Diploma in Music Industry Skills, and Level 3 study in Performing and/or production arts. It could also support progression to an apprenticeship in a related sector.

At the core of this qualification is the concept of preparing young people for the working world. Through practical activities and music industry-fit-for-purpose assessments, learners will gain the skills and behaviours needed for sustainable employment.

Specifically, young people will:

★ Develop skills in Music Technology

★ Create their own music 

★ Get a Level 2 Award certification for their achievements.

Music Industry Skills Plus

Should a young person wish to progress to further studies at Higher Rhythm following completion of Music Industry Skills, the option to enrol on Music Industry Skills Plus can be explored.

The BTEC Level 2 Certificate is a 150 GLH course designed for learners who are looking to study Music as part of a one-year course alongside other areas of study.

It supports progression to Level 3 study, such as Higher Rhythm’s BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Music Technology. It can provide fundamental sector skills valued in other subject areas, such as creative media, performing arts or business. It could also support progression to an apprenticeship in a related sector.

Learners taking this qualification will study two mandatory units:

• Exploring Music
• Skills Development for Performing Arts

They will also choose one optional unit from

• Creating Music
• Music Performance
• Music Production
• Sound Engineering

Specifically, young people will:

★ Learn techniques and methods to produce their own music.

★ Create their own music portfolio

★ Get a Level 2 Certificate certification for their achievements.

Why attend Higher Rhythm?

Higher Rhythm’s alternative provision offers a genuine progression route from entering as a disengaged young person through to a studying on our Level 3 Diploma. This makes our AP programme a significant departure from traditional limited term, limited scope alternative provision.

We aim to equip young people with the skills and accreditation to progress to Further / Higher Education and the professional work place.