Option Descriptors (new S4-S6)
Click on the links below to view the subject course descriptor:
We currently offer 4 subjects within the Music department. Click the links below for more information.

NPA Musical Theatre
The National Progression Award in Musical Theatre (SCQF level 6) gives learners’ the opportunity to deepen their knowledge and understanding of the practice of Musical Theatre. It is an exciting course which develops a range of transferable skills including rehearsing, presenting, self- evaluation and the ability to work independently and in group.
There are three units in the Musical Theatre NPA:
The National Progression Award in Musical Theatre (SCQF level 6) gives learners’ the opportunity to deepen their knowledge and understanding of the practice of Musical Theatre. It is an exciting course which develops a range of transferable skills including rehearsing, presenting, self- evaluation and the ability to work independently and in group.
There are three units in the Musical Theatre NPA:
- Acting Through Song
- Solo Singing Skills
- Group Singing
The NPA in Musical Theatre is suitable for pupils who have an interest in and/or experience in Musical Theatre. In particular, the NPA would meet the needs of:
- students who have achieved SCQF level 5 (Intermediate 2 Drama or Music or Standard Grade Drama or Music) and who wish to progress further
- students who have achieved SCQF level 6 (Higher Drama, Music or Dance) and who wish to extend their practical skills and knowledge of musical theatre
- students who seek an alternative progressive pathway to Advanced Higher Drama/Music/Dance Units and Courses
- students auditioning for drama/music/dance programmes in further or higher education — the Units Preparation for Audition and Acting through Song will help students planning to audition for Musical Theatre of Performing Arts Courses
- students preparing for professional theatre auditions — the Unit Preparation for Audition along with any of the other optional Units will help prepare students who are planning to enter the professional theatre/musical theatre or performing arts industry
It is recognised that candidates who achieve the NPA in Musical Theatre could potentially find employment in the following areas:
- Performing (Musical Theatre, Drama, Dance, Music)
- Performing arts promotion/management
- Teaching