Teach RSL Awards Exams Like a Pro: A Practical Guide for Music Teachers

Why take this course?

If you teach students who are working towards RSL Awards graded music exams, including Rockschool, this course gives you the clarity, confidence, and tools to guide them every step of the way.

RSL Awards are recognised globally for their forward-thinking approach to music education — celebrating contemporary instruments, modern repertoire, and flexible assessment pathways that support every learner.

This short, self-paced course is designed for music teachers who want to:

Understand the structure and expectations of RSL Awards graded exams.
Confidently advise students on the right exam format for their goals.
Streamline exam entries and preparation using official RSL systems and resources.

You’ll finish this course feeling well-informed, and ready to help every student perform at their best — while strengthening your own professional expertise.

What you’ll gain from this course

🎓 Clarity on the Graded Exam System
Understand every pathway from Debut to Grade 8, across multiple instruments and formats.

🎵 Confidence in Student Guidance
Learn how to help each learner choose the right exam type for their goals and experience level.

🎤 Insight into Flexible Exam Options
Master RSL’s “Free Choice” system and explore how students can bring their own music into their exams.

📚 Practical Tools for Teachers
Access RSL Gradebooks, RiFF, and exam booking systems with ease.

🎯 Professional Recognition
Strengthen your credibility as a knowledgeable, trusted teacher within the RSL Awards ecosystem.

Course Outline

Module 1 | Accessing RSL Gradebooks

Learn how to use RSL’s official Gradebooks to prepare students for success.

You’ll learn how to:

Find and download RSL Awards Gradebooks for each instrument and grade.
Use the Gradebooks as a structured teaching and assessment tool.
Interpret technical requirements and assessment criteria.
Integrate the repertoire into lesson plans to build exam readiness.

Module 2 | Understanding RiFF

Get hands-on with RiFF, RSL’s online portal for managing exams and resources.

You’ll learn how to:

Create and manage a RiFF teacher or school account.
Enter students for exams, manage their entries, and track progress.
Navigate RiFF’s dashboard to find key updates, results, and materials.
Troubleshoot common RiFF issues and know where to find support.

Module 3 | Exam Formats Explained

Understand the three RSL Awards exam types and how to choose the right fit for each student.

You’ll learn how to:

Differentiate between Graded Exams, Performance Certificates, and Video Exams.
Understand what each format assesses — from technical work to musical interpretation.
Match exam formats to student confidence levels and goals.
Use format flexibility to increase student engagement and success.

Module 4 | Free Choice Pieces & Wider Repertoire

Empower your students to express themselves through music they love.

You’ll learn how to:

Understand RSL’s Free Choice Piece policy and approval process.
Select suitable repertoire that meets exam standards.
Explore the Vocals Wider Repertoire list for singers.
Prepare and submit Free Choice Pieces effectively for assessment.

Module 5 | Graded Exams & UCAS Points

Show students and parents the academic value of their musical achievements.

You’ll learn how to:

Understand how RSL Awards qualifications align with the RQF framework.
Identify which grades carry UCAS points and how many.
Explain the value of UCAS points to parents and students.
Use this knowledge to inspire long-term progression through the grades.

Module 6 | How to Enter for an Exam

Navigate the exam entry process like a pro — simple, accurate, and stress-free.

You’ll learn how to:

Choose the correct format, date, and location for each student.
Manage exam fees, deadlines, and entry confirmations.
Avoid common errors that delay or invalidate exam bookings.

Module 7 | Private & Public Exam Days (UK & ROI Only)

Take control of your exam experience and understand the options available to your students.

You’ll learn how to:

Differentiate between Private and Public exam days.
Host a private exam session for your school or studio.
Understand examiner scheduling and setup requirements.
Prepare your students for a smooth, confident exam day experience.

Module 8 | Getting Support

Know exactly where to turn for help — quickly, reliably, and directly.

You’ll learn how to:

Contact RSL Awards for teacher, candidate, and technical support.
Access the RSL Awards Help Centre and FAQs.
Find downloadable resources, policies, and submission guides.
Stay up to date with new exam formats, policies, and digital tools.

Format

This course is fully online and self-paced, designed for busy music teachers.
Each module includes practical explanations, step-by-step walkthroughs, and links to official RSL resources so you can apply what you learn immediately.

You can revisit the course at any time to refresh your knowledge or support new students entering exams.

Outcome

By completing this course, you’ll:

Gain complete confidence in how RSL Awards graded exams work.
Know how to guide students through entry, preparation, and performance.
Use RSL’s digital systems efficiently to save time and avoid mistakes.
Strengthen your professional standing and deliver even more value to your students.

You’ll finish feeling ready to help your learners shine!

⚠️ Important Note

Completing this course does not provide any advantage or guarantee a better result in an RSL Awards examination. It is an instructional and informational course created to help teachers better understand RSL Awards’ exam processes, systems, and options so they can support their students more effectively.