A level Music

Our core entry requirements are six or more GCSEs at grade 5+, including 5+ in English literature, language and mathematics. There are also subject-specific criteria for some subjects as detailed on our websites linked below.

Entry requirements on the Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form website

Entry requirements on the Jane Austen College website

Our application process takes place completely online through our dedicated application website here. Following your application to join us from Help You Choose, we'll contact you

For entry to Sir Isaac, you will need six or more GCSEs at grade 5+, including maths 5+ and English language 4+.

For entry to Jane Austen, you will need six or more GCSEs at grade 5+, including maths 5+, English language/literature 6+, and the other 5+.

In addition to this, if you wish to study A Level Music, you will need Grade 5+ on a musical instrument and Grade 5 theory. Grade 5+ in GCSE music if taken.

This course builds on students’ understanding of the key areas explored in GCSE music: listening and appraising, composition and performance.

Component 1: Performance. Students will prepare for a public performance of three pieces.

Component 2: Composition. Students will create two compositions; one will be in response to an externally set brief and the other a free composition.

Component 3: Appraising. Students will develop an understanding of the organisation of sounds, the context of music and musical styles and genres.

The unit includes in-depth study of set works from Western Classical tradition, popular music, musical theatre and jazz/blues. The exam will assess students through listening questions and essay questions.

Grade 5+ on musical instrument and Grade 5 theory. Grade 5+ in GCSE music if taken.

For entry to the school overall, you will need six or more GCSEs at grade 5+ including maths, English literature and English language