Introduction to the TQ-Qualification Programme

The TQ-Qualification Programme utilises seven distinct learning environments called 'TQ-Zones': The Find Zone, Create Zone, Grow Zone, Develop Zone, Achieve Zone, Explore Zone, and Build Zone. Each zone focuses on specific musical skills and knowledge areas, providing opportunities to earn TQ-Credits.

 

These are The Find Zone where a student learns to decode the language of music. The Create Zone where a student discovers their own musical voice. In the Grow Zone musical growth is nurtured and new skills are discovered. The Develop Zone refines musical skills and develops expressive skills and personal success is demonstrated in the Achieve Zone. The Explore Zone investigates themes, genres and diversity in music and the Build Zone constructs a musical foundation.

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The TQ system follows a progressive structure: TQ-Badge Sets lead to TQ-Credits, which are required for TQ-Awards, and so on.

 

This system is designed to recognise and reward student progress and achievement across various zones and skill areas. It utilises a tiered structure of Certificates, starting with TQ-Credits and progressing through TQ-Award, TQ-Medals, TQ-Zone Rosettes, and ultimately, TQ-Level Diplomas.

 

The incorporation of badges, credits, and portfolio submissions to encourage continuous development and mastery of skills. Students can earn extra special distinctions and merits within each Certificate level, reflecting their level of dedication and achievement. The system is structured to provide clear pathways for advancement, with defined requirements for each Certificate and recognition of both completion and mastery of skills.

 

Twelve TQ-Credits are available in each Zone. In addition TQ-Credits and TQ-Badges are available for work completed outside of the zones including TQ-Challenges, performance exams, workbooks, external performances and achievements and portfolios.

 

Earning TQ-Credits

The TQ system consists of a series of levels, and users progress by accumulating specific achievements at each level. Earning a set of TQ-Badges results in TQ-Credits, which can be accumulated to earn TQ-Awards. With the correct number of TQ-Awards, users can earn a TQ-Medal or trophy. This system continues, allowing users to earn TQ-Rosettes and ultimately, the TQ-Diploma. The diploma signifies Sector Achievement and completes the program. Programs are available at the Elementary, Intermediate, and Advanced levels, and lead into professional training.

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Credit Transfer

A key element of the TQ-Qualification Programme is the concept of credit transfer, which allows students to leverage their accumulated achievements to progress through the tiered system. Similar to exchanging smaller denominations of currency for a larger note or a university crediting previously earned modules towards a degree, the TQ system enables the 'transfer' of earned TQ-Awards within a specific TQ-Zone to attain higher-level qualifications like TQ-Medals. This process recognizes prior learning and provides a clear pathway for students to advance by building upon their foundational successes.

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TQ-Badges & Credits

The concept behind TQ-Badges is inspired by the skill badges used in organizations like guides and scouts. Individual badges are earned for specific challenges and achievements. Accumulating a certain number of badges, or completing a full set for a TQ-Challenge, can contribute towards earning TQ-Credits towards achieving a Merit or Distinction at the TQ-Award level. For example, “The Circle Challenge” has fourteen badges equalling 1 credit.

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The first stage of the TQ Qualification Programme is a TQ-Credit. There are seven zones, each with 12 Skill Focus Rows (referred to as a row) per TQ-Zone. A row in a zone is a specific skill that is being completed. For example, Row 5 in Find focuses on learning to read and play the notes for the level. There are four levels numbered 1, 2, 3, and 4 in the Elementary sector. For each row, you can achieve a TQ-Credit, resulting in 12 credits per zone, 7 zones in the level, and 4 levels in the Elementary sector.​

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