Level 3
Music Performance and Production, UAL Extended Diploma
Level 3
Music Performance and Production, UAL Extended Diploma
If music is your language, this course gives you the space, tools, and industry insight to express it. The UAL Level 3 Diploma and Extended Diploma in Music Performance and Production at Weston College is designed for students with a passion for music performance, production, and creative collaboration. You’ll develop your sound, strengthen your technical skills, and work on real-world projects that prepare you for higher education or a professional career in the music industry.
Course Overview
Based at Loxton Campus, this immersive programme blends creativity, technical skill, and industry practice. You’ll work in professional recording studios, rehearsal rooms, and digital production suites, all equipped with industry-standard software and hardware. The course combines practical workshops, theoretical study, and live performance opportunities, supported by tutors with real-world industry experience, from session musicians to producers.
Throughout the course, you’ll engage with live briefs, collaborative projects, and public performances, while developing transferable skills such as project management, digital content creation, and professional profile building. Each year, you’ll complete four major projects, creating a professional website to showcase your work. Projects for Year 1 include “I Feel Britty”, “Crossroads”, “Chip off the Old Rock”, and “Collabor-8”. Year 2 projects include “Take the Power Back”, “Ready Player 1”, “I Said Maybe”, and “Collabor-8” as your final major project.
Students will benefit from guest lectures, industry workshops, cross-college creative collaborations, and external performance opportunities. You will automatically join our Career Excellence Hub, helping you develop your professional network and prepare for progression to higher education or employment in music.
What will I study?
- Live performance skills and ensemble work
- Music theory, harmony, and songwriting
- Studio recording and multitrack production
- Digital audio production using industry-standard software
- Remixing, sound design, and creative composition
- Music industry roles, promotion, and project planning
- Developing your artistic identity and professional portfolio
- Professional website creation for projects
- Industry-focused workshops and guest lectures
- Transferable skills such as project management, digital content, and teamwork
How will I be assessed?
- Project-based assignments including performance, production, and research
- Studio recordings and live showcase assessments
- Practical coursework and written reflections
Additional Information
Students on the Music Performance and Production course at Weston College benefit from a wide range of industry-focused trips, live experiences, and collaborative opportunities. Examples from recent years include:
- Performing at Scare Fest at Puxton Park
- Travel and industry experience in Nashville, USA
- Visits to BBC Radio Cardiff
- Multiple live gig opportunities at local venues, including Electric Banana, WSM, Ye Olde Inn Bristol, and Open Mic Night at Front Room WSM
- Workshops and talks with industry professionals, such as Luke Potter (songwriting), Pano Mallouris (session musician), and Ian Robertson (tour manager)
- Opportunities to participate in live album recordings and music video collaborations
These experiences allow you to develop performance skills, network with industry professionals, and gain real-world insight into the music sector.
Entry Requirements
- Five GCSEs (or Level 2 equivalent) at grade 9–4, including English and maths
- If progressing from a Level 2 course, a Merit grade is required
- Previous music study, performance experience, or technical/industry experience is highly advantageous
- A strong passion for music and ambition to progress to higher education or the music industry
- High standard of written and theoretical work to support practical projects
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
What can I do after this course?
- Progress to the UAL Extended Diploma in Music Performance & Production
- Apply for Level 3 apprenticeships in live sound, studio assistance, or music business
- Work as a performer, producer, session musician, or sound technician
- Continue to university-level study in music, production, or creative industries
What do I do now?
Ready to apply? – Please use the ‘apply now’ button on this page. From here you’ll be taken through to our application portal.
What to learn more? – Visit and see the facilities and chat to staff by signing up for our next open event
Have a quick question? – Use our Live Chat facility on the bottom right of this page.