Kickstart a successful career in the Music Industry with our National Diploma in Music Technology
The music industry contributes £7 billion to the UK economy, employing over 210,000 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 have access to the very best pro-level equipment. We’re not just qualified tutors, we’re industry pros.
The Music Technology National Diploma programme has run since 2010 and is rated Outstanding by the National awarding body. Our unique model of delivering the course in a real industry setting, provides an authentic and truly immersive 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.
Open Events and Expression of Interest
For young people considering our BTEC Level 3 Music Technology for September 2026, you may wish to attend an Open Event. Use the button below to open the form.
Heard enough already and want to apply now?
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Frequently asked questions
| What’s the Qualification? | A BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Music Technology, worth 2 A-levels and up to 112 UCAS points. Year 2 students, can also choose an Extended Project Qualification for an additional 12 to 28 UCAS points (helpful for top uni places!) |
| What equipment do I need? | For hygiene purposes, we advise learners to have their own headphones. We will advise which ones to buy. You don’t need anything else. |
| What’s the timetable? | Two days per week over two academic years as 720 learning hours + 520 hours enrichment. (The Extended Project Qualification option also adds a further 120 learning hours). |
| What kind of things will I learn about? | Music Tech, Studio Recording, Audio Engineering, Production, Live Sound and more. |
| 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 are the entry requirements? | Minimum 5 GCSEs at Grade 9 – 4, or a Level 2 Merit grade in BTEC. It is preferable that you achieve at least a (GCSE) pass in Music. To ensure that you qualify, it’s desirable that you achieve at least a Grade 4/C or above in English and Maths. There’s an interview and portfolio review or audition. Minimum age is 16. |
| What support is available? | We offer a fully inclusive learning environment with small class sizes and treat you as an individual. If you have additional learning needs or need any other support, just let us know. We can also provide support with Functional Skills, or GCSE English & Math (if required) |
| 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 Higher Education such as our HND in Sound Engineering or Uni is an option (we offer HND priority places for our Level 3 students) or moving onto employment. Careers in the music industry include, studio engineer, music producer, live sound, events promoter, recording artist, creative media, music publishing & labels, AV industries, management… the list keeps growing! |
By enrolling at Higher Rhythm you will also benefit from our unique enrichment and work experience programme, including:
| 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 |
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.
Joe Russell Brown – Tutor
Joe is an accomplished musician and music producer, recording and releasing music which has gained impressive traction.
Joe has a golden ear… Evident in the jaw dropping clarity of his mixes. His extensive knowledge of DAW based music production and evolving technologies, assure his classes stay at the forefront of modern music technology.
Zawedde Walusimbi – Tutor
Zawedde Walusimbi is a Folk and Soul singer-songwriter and recipient of the PRS Foundation Women Make Music grant.
Zawe brings experience as a music creator and event coordinator into her tutor role, supporting learners to explore creative expression through music productions.
Doya Beardmore – Tutor
Doya is a professional recording artist, releasing music on Brownswood recordings and now signed to Partisan records.
Doya has a strong expertise in modern production techniques, and is a master of sound manipulation, sculpting atmospheres and beats from even the most basic of digital music tools. Doya brings his experience as a songwriter, producer and performer to his role as a tutor.
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 via her profile on the contacts page
Chrissy has a background in media, and is a widely experienced educator, holding a degree in Media (cum laude) and an MA in International Communications.
Mat Handley – Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
Mat is our Designated Safeguarding Lead. If you have any concerns about a student please contact Mat via his profile on the contacts page
Mat is also an experienced musician, with vast expertise of classic synthesises and runs an independent record label for experimental and electronic music.
