Instrumental/Vocal Teaching Diploma
Appropriate professional experience
At all three levels you may apply to offer appropriate professional experience as a substitution for the standard ABRSM prerequisite. This is done by filling in the application form and sending it to the Syllabus Director for consideration.
The application form is available to download at the bottom of this page and is included in the Appendices section of the printed syllabuses.
The form must reach ABRSM at least six weeks before the published closing date for the session in which you wish to be examined. (LRSM candidates: the form must reach us at least six weeks before you intend to submit your Case Study Portfolio and Video of Teaching Practice – see p. 36 of the Syllabus.) It is important to note that applying for this substitution is a separate procedure from sending in your Entry Form, and that approval of your professional experience must already have been given before you can enter for the Diploma. When you are ready to enter, you must enclose our approval letter with your completed Entry Form.
Please note the following points:
- The professional experience that you cite on your application form must be comparable in both subject and level to the prerequisite you are applying to substitute. This experience should consist of some or all of the following: full-time music courses other than those listed in under Prerequisites and Subsitutions in the Syllabus; qualifications gained in areas specifically relating to the prerequisite; and relevant practical experience as a teacher. These should have been undertaken or completed within the preceding five years.
- Your professional experience must be supported by a signed declaration from an independent person of appropriate standing (for example, a course director/supervisor/tutor, head of a Music Service, head teacher or other education professional). Standard wording for this declaration is given in the application form.
- Wherever possible, your application form should be supported by documentary evidence, such as copies of certificates, details of module/course content, samples of marked work, or pupils’ examination results.
Application form
Send your completed form to:
The Syllabus Director, ABRSM, 24 Portland Place, London W1B 1LU, United Kingdom