National Diploma in Music Technology
Study in a real
industry setting
Fully-funded places for Post-16 students
Learn from music
industry experts
Access the very best
pro-level equipment
Grow your music industry
network whilst you study
Kickstart a successful career in the music industry with the Higher Rhythm National Diploma in Music Technology
The music industry contributes £5 billion to the UK economy, employing over 190,000 people. At Higher Rhythm, we believe that anyone with the right support can build a rewarding career in this growing industry. Our BTEC Level 3 Music Technology National Diploma is the perfect starting point.
The best way to develop the skills needed for any industry is to learn from professionals who work in it. This is what our programme is all about. At Higher Rhythm you get to work alongside experienced professionals in real industry settings and get access to the very best pro-level equipment and this is what sets us apart… we’re a professional music industry organisation so we’re not just qualified tutors, we’re industry-pros.
The Music Technology National Diploma programme has run for over 10 years and the results speak for themselves. Our learners achieve, progress and go on to succeed, and the programme is rated Outstanding by the National awarding body.
Our unique model of delivering a National Diploma in an authentic industry setting, provides a truly immersive learning experience for learners. Maximum class sizes of 12 also means that everyone gets the support they need to develop a high-level of technical competency.
Additional to our courses, we run two pro recording studios and a licensed radio station (Sine FM). We also run a record label, have links with a range of UK music festivals and venues, and we’ve delivered stages featuring established artists at events such as South By Southwest in the US (the biggest music industry event in the world). All of our programmes are structured around these real industry connections.
Complete the EOI form below to book an introductory session and to download your free Music Industry Guide.
Frequently asked questions
| What equipment will I need? | None, because we have it all, including a number of iPads and MacBooks which can be booked out by learners. |
| What does a timetable look like? | Two full days per week over two academic years, plus additional learning enrichment activities. |
| Are there any fees? | There is no cost for post 16 learners on this programme as places are fully funded. Additional learning bursaries are also available for some learners subject to status. |
| What support is available? | The course leader and Higher Rhythm staff will support you throughout the course. We are also experts at supporting additional learning needs and everyone is welcome. If you need additional support, just let us know. |
| Can I also take another course elsewhere? | Possibly, but please be aware that preferential places on our programmes are given to young people who are only studying at Higher Rhythm. Ask us first! |
| What could I go on to after the course? | Progression onto our two year HND in Music Technology is a perfect option (we offer priority places for our Level 3 course graduates) or into employment. |
On our post-16 BTEC National Diploma Music Technology study programme (720 learning hours + 520 hours enrichment across two years) you will:
| Gain a BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Music Technology (worth 2 A-levels and up to 112 UCAS points) |
| Study Music Tech, Studio Recording, Audio Production, Live Sound and more, at our town centre location |
| Enjoy an inclusive learning environment with smaller class sizes (12 max) and be treated as an individual! |
| Receive support with Functional Skills, or GCSE English & Math (if required) |
New for 23/24 our Year 2 BTEC National Diploma Music Technology students will also be offered the chance to undertake the Extended Project Qualification (an additional 120 learning hours):
| Gain an additional 12 -28 UCAS points, helpful for those top university places! |
| Expand on your learning by choosing a project topic in your selected field of study |
| Explore an area of music that is relevant to your own personal interests and ambitions |
By enrolling at Higher Rhythm you will also benefit from our unique work enrichment and work experience programme, which includes:
| Master Classes with established music industry professionals |
| Vocational experience working in a pro studio and at live music events |
| Free entry to festival showcases, gigs and music industry panel events |
Progression routes from our programme include:
| Entry to Higher Education HND and Degree Courses |
| A range of employment destinations in the music industry including, studio engineering, music production, live sound, events promotion, recording artist, creative media, music publishing and licensing, AV industries, artist management… the list keeps growing! |
Meet some of the team below
Ricky Middleton - Course Leader
Ricky is a seasoned industry professional with over 15 years experience and is a multi instrumentalist. Touring throughout the world, Ricky’s knowledge and industry experience along with Qualified Teacher Status allows him to share his knowledge with our next generation of musicians to the highest level.
Andy Seward - Tutor
An award winning producer, engineer and musician who has worked for decades, with some of the biggest names in the industry, Andy has a long list of production and playing credits on huge selling records and is a holder of a prestigious, Sony Gold Award. Andy brings the real industry and his +30 years of professional experience into every session.
Mat Handley - Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
Mat is our Designated Safeguarding Lead.
If you have any concerns about a student please contact Mat
mathandley@higherrhythm.education
Chrissy Moog - SEND Lead / Deputy DSL
Chrissy is our SEND Lead and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead.
If you have any concerns about a student please contact Chrissy
chrissymoog@higherrhythm.education
