Coventry Music is launching a targeted alternative provision programme designed to re-engage students through practical, creative music-making. Delivered on-site at Media Mania, this initiative offers a structured pathway for students to explore:
Band performance using contemporary instruments (guitar, keyboard, drums, bass, vocals)
Studio recording techniques and podcasting
Collaborative and individual musical outcomes
Course Modules
Introduction to beat making/rap/indie band skills
Unit Overview:
Learners will explore the foundational skills required to perform in a contemporary band setting, focusing on beat making, rap, rock, indie, and pop genres.
Learning Outcomes:
• Identify the roles of different instruments in a band.
• Demonstrate basic rehearsal techniques including warm-ups, timing, and communication.
• Perform as part of a band in a rehearsal and live setting.
• Show awareness of musicianship including dynamics, tempo, and ensemble playing.
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Introduction to the Music Industry
Unit Overview:
This unit introduces learners to the structure of the music industry and the variety of career paths available.
Learning Outcomes:
• Identify key sectors of the music industry (e.g., performance, production, management, publishing).
• Explore different roles and responsibilities within the industry.
• Understand pathways into employment and freelance work.
• Create a guide or presentation on careers in music.
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Beat Making and Music Production / Music Technology
Unit Overview:
Learners will develop skills in digital music creation using DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations) and explore music technology tools.
Learning Outcomes:
• Use a DAW to create and edit beats.
• Apply effects and mixing techniques to enhance a track.
• Understand the role of MIDI, sampling, and audio recording.
• Produce a short original beat or instrumental track.
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Song Writing and Composition
Unit Overview:
This unit encourages learners to express themselves through original songwriting and musical composition.
Learning Outcomes:
• Develop lyrics based on a theme or personal experience.
• Compose a melody using voice or instrument.
• Structure a song with verses, chorus, and bridge.
• Collaborate or perform an original composition.
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Producing and Recording a Podcast
Unit Overview:
Learners will plan, record, and produce a podcast episode on a topic of their choice, developing communication and technical skills.
Learning Outcomes:
• Plan a podcast episode including script and structure.
• Use recording equipment or software to capture audio.
• Edit and produce a podcast using basic audio tools.
• Share or present the final podcast.
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Live Band Performance
Unit Overview:
This unit focuses on preparing and delivering a live performance as part of a band, showcasing teamwork and musical ability.
Learning Outcomes:
• Rehearse effectively with a group for a live performance.
• Demonstrate stage presence and performance confidence.
• Perform a set of songs to an audience.
• Reflect on performance strengths and areas for improvement.
Awarding Body
AQA
Student Expected Outcomes
Students will work towards AQA Unit Award Scheme certificates, recognising their progress and achievements in a format that supports personal development and alternative accreditation. This programme is ideal for learners who thrive in hands-on, creative environments and may benefit from a non-traditional approach to engagement.
Key Stage course delivered to
KS3; KS4
Admissions Criteria
Interest in Music
Staff Experience
Mark Patton – is a Learning and Development Lead for Coventry Music, the lead organisation for the Heart of England Music Hub. Mark is an experienced music educator and has been the Music Service Inclusion Lead since 2018, developing the city wide music offer in partnership with national partners and Dr Phil Mullen. This has resulted in a development of new programmes for those excluded from school, in Hospital Education, with SEN/D and a substantial Children Looked After programme with over 60 looked after learners accessing provision in Coventry weekly. Mark has overseen and delivered at Coventry AP Academy sites since 2018, Virtual Schools partnership since 2019 and ran our previous work related learning offer 2019-2021. Alongside Mark’s work he is an accomplished Guitarist performing professionally.
Alongside Mark will be a team of tutors to compliment the offer and meet the needs of the young people including skills in DJ’ing, Beat Making, Acoustic Instruments and more. All Coventry Music tutors have a minimum of Grade 8 skill levels on their first instrument, complete Safeguarding training with DSL’s trained by Coventry Safeguarding Children’s Partnership and regular CPD in music education and inclusive practices.
