All young musicians are given a merit card during their first lesson.
This is to help keep motivation high, award hard work and give pupils a sense of achievement in their playing. Merits are awarded for consistent regular practice, playing above and beyond what is required, tone quality, tenacity and general musicianship.
Once a merit card is full pupils are awarded the Bronze Certificate of Achievement in Music which is presented in school honours assembly. If pupils complete a second merit card they will be awarded the Silver Certificate of Achievement in Music. The highest is Platinum Award, where pupil's receive a special music award.