I-Play Music Standards of Admission Policy 2025 to 2027

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Learning to play or sing music at a high standard with genuine passion requires significant commitment and diligent practice. Practising forms the foundation of mastering any musical instrument, and consistent effort is essential for progress. The I-Play Music Standards of Admission Policy emphasises the importance of students enrolling in lessons and actively participating in events. It is vital for students to dedicate themselves earnestly to homework practice, as this is key to achieving success at I-Play Music. We value dedication, and we encourage all students to apply themselves fully throughout their journey with us.

Starting from September 2025, the Autumn Term will focus entirely on Practical Theory, during which all the skills required for a particular grade will be taught within that period. This innovative approach is designed to fast-track students toward higher grades in a shorter timeframe. For example, a student studying for Drums at Grade 3 will learn all assessment criteria for that grade, and the results of which will be recorded in their Learning Diary. The second half of the autumn term will concentrate on progressing that student up to Grade 4. However, if this pace proves too demanding, the student will continue at Grade 3 for the remainder of the term.

Session Skills will commence in January and continue until the spring half-term. This new initiative involves students working with other musical instruments played by their peers. For example, understanding how different instrument sounds interact can enhance musical cohesion and expression. Students at primary school age will have 60-minute sessions involving at least one peer, while secondary and adult students will enjoy 75 to 90-minute sessions, again with at least one peer. The spring term will conclude with two days of mock exams.

The second half of the spring term begins with the Analysis and Evaluation of Mock Exam Results, followed by the Rehearsal Sessions. In essence, rehearsal sessions replace traditional band rehearsals and are tailored to the individual’s aspirations and goals, emphasising focused development to achieve excellence in performances.

After nine rehearsal sessions, music exams will take place at the end of May. This change reflects the recent progress some students have made, demonstrating significant leaps in their standards. Historically, music exams were somewhat separated from performance practise; however, integrating exam preparation with rehearsals provides a more effective pathway to success.

To conclude, our aim at I-Play Music is to foster a supportive environment that encourages dedication, skill development, and performance excellence. By combining focused theoretical learning, collaborative sessions, and practical exam preparation, we are committed to helping students reach their full musical potential. Thank you for choosing I-Play Music, we look forward to supporting your musical journey.

 

The Initial Assessment.

During the initial assessment, the factors we take into consideration when accepting candidates as students are: -

1. Wanting to learn to play and perform with the musical instrument of their choice and participate in the I-Play Mini Concerts, and other musical events. To qualify, completion of one full academic year is usually required.

2. Being prepared to put in the time needed and to commit to practising using an arranged schedule for the entire year.

3. Being prepared to register for student portal and to use it for lesson related communication including homework help, links to other pages, and any important news bulletins.

4. Recognising that the Learning Diary is an important syllabus and is crucial for supplying up-to-date lesson information, and to bring it to all lessons and band rehearsals; online students will need to login to access it.

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Candidates will also be assessed to see whether they: -

1. Have the ability to carry out instructions with minimum fuss and are prepared to try and achieve a positive outcome.

2. Have the ability to concentrate/focus on the activity or task presented by the tutor over a period of 15 to 20 minutes.

3. Are demonstrating the right aptitude and attitude for learning.

4. Have the willingness to try different approaches to learn a particular skill, so as to aid or speed up learning.

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Once we all agree with the outcome of the assessment, we expect the parent or you the student if 18 or over to: -

1. Enrol through completing the Application & Registration Form ideally in the presence of a member of the IPM SLT.

2. Once enrolled and lessons started, apply total commitment to your course for the duration of your time at IPM.

3. Demonstrate understanding of the criteria for study including the use of Learning Diary, use of the Student Portal and any Homework and Practise Assignments.

4. The important necessity and the likelihood of taking video mock exams and preparing for and participating at the I-Play Mini Concerts, this also includes the other listed venues as stated on the IPM Video Consent Forms.

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Applying for a Music Course at I-Play Music

We accept students from the age of 10 (YR5) but this can depend on a number of factors such as experience, and whether or not if gifted or talented. We cater for the complete novice to anyone wanting to improve their limited skills with fresh ideas and techniques. Applications for our courses run during May, notably Monday 5th to Friday 15th . Once accepted lessons will commence during the first week of term in September 2026.

 

Students and parents must always ensure that evaluations and any homework activities are communicated to the I-Play Music tutor via the Chat Bubble on the Student Portal; log-in is a requirement in order to carry-out these actions. The session tutor is not allowed to rearrange a previously confirmed lesson time without first consulting the Head Tutor of I-Play Music, then the student. We may sometimes arrange for students to have online lessons with a carefully selected and aptly qualified tutor.

 

Applications for our courses in 2026 run the last two-weeks of May, notably Tuesday 19th to Friday 22nd and Tuesday 26th to Friday 29th respectively. To apply for music lessons, please visit http://www.iplaymusic.org and navigate to our contact page. Complete the online form including your phone number and click or tap send. The information you provide will enable the I-Play Music Admin Team to contact you and setup a taster / workshop session, within a short time frame.

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Completing the Application & Registration Form

The Application & Registration Form will be forwarded to the designated individual for completion and signing. When submitting online, ensure the document is fully filled out without any omissions, DocuSigned, and returned to the Head of Finance at finance@iplaymusic.org. Following this step, lesson allocation will be promptly organised. A member of the IPM Admin Team will reach out to discuss the transition period and essential details, including student expectations. The Application & Registration Form will be scanned, and a copy will be emailed to the individual responsible for signing it.  The original form will be securely stored and used for its intended purposes by I-Play Music Ltd. The signatory of the form will be legally bound by its terms and conditions, assuming responsibility for all tuition and exam fees.

 

Initiating the First Payment​

Our academic payment terms are effective from the month of initial enrolment. For the period of 2025, this begins on Friday, 1st of August and runs through to Friday, 3rd July 2026. To ensure receipt of tuition fees, early payment in July is recommended. Payment options include a one-time annual payment or a three-term time-based payment. Due to previous experiences, the monthly payment scheme is no longer available.

The first three years of study (Level 1) are pivotal for establishing a solid foundation in the techniques relevant to the instrument being studied. It is essential to highlight that students often overlook this aspect, prompting us to conduct regular assessment sessions. As an Approved Examination Centre with RSL Awards, we provide high-quality learning resources for every program we offer, including our proprietary courses. Each stage involves mastering three performance songs along with technical exercises and Practical Theory components. For more in-depth details about all our courses, you can refer to the Courses page at https://www.iplaymusic.org/courses

 

The I-Play Music Tutors

 

What are the responsibilities for the I-Play Music Tutor?

The following responsibilities are crucial for ensuring a successful and supportive learning environment for students at I-Play Music.

• Adhering to the tutor schedule, arrive punctually, and be fully prepared for the day's sessions

• Develop additional educational materials to enrich students’ learning experiences

• Evaluate the progress of assigned students using the student portal to ensure effective learning processes

• Design engaging and educational lessons to captivate and instruct students effectively

• Maintain an organised and conducive workspace within the tutoring area for students

• Create a friendly, encouraging, and welcoming atmosphere for students upon their arrival at I-Play Music

• Establish communication with parents to update them on students’ progress and areas requiring improvement

• Promote and uphold high standards for academic achievement and behaviour, encouraging students to meet these standards consistently

• Identify and address any anxieties or concerns displayed by students promptly, seeking ways to alleviate their unease

• Immediately report any significant concerns to the head tutor or Liaison Officer as soon as they arise

[This Standards of Admission Policy may be updated without notice]