RSL Awards Professional Qualifications are your entry to performing arts diplomas and certificates at a professional level.

The current Professional Diploma qualifications are being replaced. Any candidates enrolled for the old Level 4 or 6 Diplomas will have until the end of March 2026 to submit their coursework (with the exception of extensions that may be permitted in extenuating circumstances). The new Professional Diploma qualifications will be available for enrolment from April 2025. Please contact us if you have any questions about the new qualifications.

Professional Diplomas

Whether you’re an aspiring teacher, musician or performing artist, we recognise your ambition to succeed. You live to create, perform or teach – and the Professional Diploma will help get you there! Enrol in a diploma specialising in either Performance or Teaching.

Level 3 Certificate in Supporting Learning

Kick start your teaching career! Whether you already have some experience teaching or you’re just getting started, this certificate will help you develop essential teaching skills.

Our Professional Diplomas are designed to recognise the skills and experience of those already working in the creative arts industries. Whether your focus is Teaching or Performance, these qualifications formally acknowledge your professional achievement and expertise.
Each qualification is available at both Level 4 and Level 6, allowing you to choose the level that best matches your experience. You can complete the qualification at your own pace, and while no formal training is required, we recommend working with a trainer or mentor who can support your development and provide practical opportunities to refine your skills.

Professional Performance Diplomas

Acknowledges accomplished performers, highlighting your artistic ability, technical skills, stagecraft, and contribution to live or recorded creative performances.

Professional Teaching Diplomas

Recognises educators in the creative arts, showcasing your teaching experience, methodology, and impact on student progress and learning outcomes.

The Level 3 Certificate is designed for learners aged 16 and up beginning their teaching journey, helping to develop teaching skills specific to music or performing arts. Candidates work with a more experienced teacher observing, supporting and mentoring the candidate as they complete coursework.

The Level 3 Certificate also provides a flexible pathway into the Level 4 Professional Diploma (Teaching), with the opportunity to transfer credit towards the diploma.

These syllabuses are no longer taking enrolments. Any candidates who have enrolled previously may submit their coursework for assessment. The last awarding date for these is 31 March 2026.

Professional Diplomas

Academically rigorous and perfect for those aged 16 and up who are preparing for or already working in professional creative settings, the Rockschool Professional Diplomas allow candidates to specialise in Performance, Teaching or Creative Enterprise. Candidates complete four coursework units in their chosen specialisation over 12 months, earning a globally-recognised diploma qualification.

Associate Awards Syllabuses

The Associate Awards, offered at Levels 4 and 6 and open to all ages, are performance-specialist qualifications at an advanced level.

The Associate Awards are perfect for learners who have completed Grade 8 Rockschool exams and are looking to further challenge and develop their performance skills. The performance standard is equivalent to the Professional Diplomas, however there are no written coursework elements.