WORCESTER College of Technology has launched a new partnership with the Roland Music Academy.

The academy will offer additional qualifications, recognised within the music industry and supported by the Learning and Skills Council, and they will run alongside courses already on offer.

The National Diploma course in music technology was launched at the college in 1997 with just 20 students.

It has grown steadily over 11 years and now offers more than 100 students the opportunity to study at not only National Diploma level but at First Diploma, National Award, Access to Music and HND, with an addition next year of studying at HNC.

Paul Joyner, programme manager of the department, said: “This relationship with the Roland Academy is a positive move in the right direction which will give the students a better opportunity to proceed onto further education or to gain employment within the music industry.”

The Roland Academy status will allow students to study areas of special interest, whether it be freelance practice, event management, setting up a music business or music promotion.