Music Theory exams (digital)

Trinity’s Digital Music Theory exams may be taken at a place, date and time that suits the learner, and candidates can take advantage of the many accessibility features of Google Chrome (eg customising the display according to their needs).

Applications for reasonable adjustments, and supporting evidence (where applicable- see below) should be submitted to music-csn@trinitycollege.co.uk at least 5 days before the exam date.

A new special needs provision form must be submitted for every exam, even if reasonable adjustments have been applied previously.

Special needs provision form - Digital Theory music exams

Supporting evidence

We require evidence of need for any adjustments which could potentially give an unfair advantage to candidates, or which alter content of the exam. Please refer to the table below to see which adjustments supporting evidence is required for.

Evidence should be from a qualified medical or educational professional and should demonstrate how the candidate’s condition may affect access to the exam in question. Trinity reserves the right to reject requests for adjustments if sufficient information is not provided.

If you are not sure whether your evidence is suitable, please contact music-csn@trinitycollege.co.uk

Examples of reasonable adjustments for Digital Music Theory exams

See below for details of some of the adjustments available for candidates with special needs and disabilities. This information is not exhaustive, and we strive to respond to candidates’ individual needs where possible. For requirements not listed please contact music-csn@trinitycollege.co.uk to discuss your needs.

1. Extra time

Candidates with special needs, disabilities and health conditions may require extra time to complete their exam; the amount of extra time available to candidates who qualify is usually 25%, although up to 100% may be requested in certain circumstances.

Evidence of need is required for all extra time requests, and additional evidence may be requested to demonstrate need if more than 25% extra time is applied for.

2. Chaperone

Candidates may request the presence of a known adult during their exam for emotional support if needed. Please note that the chaperone must not be the candidate’s music teacher, and they must not communicate with the candidate or offer any assistance with the exam. Chaperones must be within shot of the webcam at all times.

3. Scribe/Reader

A scribe is a responsible adult who types the candidate’s dictated answers to the questions. Any notation should be inputted by the candidate themselves where possible. If it is not possible for a candidate to input their own notation, the candidate must describe the notes they wish to write in detail - for example, by describing the shape and position of each musical symbol, rather than referring to them by name.

A reader is a person who reads out the questions for the candidate. Any notation should be read by the candidate themselves where possible. If it is not possible for a candidate to read notation themselves (eg for blind candidates), the reader must describe the notation in detail - for example, by describing the shape and position of each musical symbol, rather than referring to them by name. 

The same person may act as a scribe and a reader if required, but both functions must be applied for and approved. The use of a scribe/ reader must reflect the candidate’s normal way of working.