Year 1: The use of digital recording equipment, mixing consoles, FX units and sequencing systems; practical work is enforced by theoretical work on the nature of sound and hearing, and on the technological understanding of equipment; as learners gain understanding and control of the studio equipment, they are encouraged to develop creative skills in production and composition; this is accompanied by an in-depth research project into a specific area selected by the learner. Year 2 includes a major project where learners compose and produce an album; the practical element of this project is accompanied by modules focusing on legal and business elements related to the music industry; other specialist modules include composing for film and television, applied production techniques and live sound system specification; learners also take part in a variety of performances in both an artistic and technical role.