A quick guide to our new Teaching Diplomas
This short guide provides an introduction to our new Teaching diploma suite. It does not replace the Qualification Specification.
If you are planning to take a diploma or prepare a student for one, it's important to read the Qualification Specification in full before preparing. Use the contents list on the right-hand side to navigate through the different diplomas.
5. ARSM and LRSM Unit 1A
A filmed lesson that allows for practical demonstration of teaching music, either as a one-off for the ARSM, or over time for the LRSM.
- ARSM: 30 minutes (±10%)
- LRSM: 45 minutes (±10%) (which includes footage from over a period of 10 weeks)
- Delivering an individual instrumental/vocal lesson
- Leading a creative session
- Leading a music session in an early years setting
- Providing coaching input to an individual or ensemble
- An orchestral/choral/band rehearsal
- Delivering a school-based music lesson
- Delivering a session designed to help a group
- Preparing for a task/area of study/upcoming assessment
- Taking a sectional or small group rehearsal
- Leading a professional development session for colleagues
The learning you choose to record should be something that you've had a chance to prepare thoroughly. You will need to write about your plan and evaluate your effectiveness during the video submission in the supporting commentary. The lesson can focus on any aspect of musical learning that you choose.
Making the recording
Filming guidance is available on the ABRSM website. If you have filmed Performance Grades before, then the same guidance applies to the room layout, the view of the instrument etc. For the ARSM, the lesson must be recorded in one continuous take and must not be paused at any time, whereas for the LRSM the film must be edited by the candidate to cover the beginning, middle and end of the learning process.
Writing the Supporting Commentary
The Candidate resource provides lots of additional information that will help you to prepare your supporting commentary.