HNC/HND Stringed Instrument Making and Repair

Higher National Qualifications provide practical skills and theoretical knowledge that meet the needs of employers. The HNC in Stringed Instrument Making and Repair (SCQF level 7) develops a professional approach to stringed instrument making and repair though the use of woodwork machinery, jig making, and incorporation of contemporary workshop practices that are found in the industry. The HND in Stringed Instrument Making and Repair (SCQF level 8) builds on the knowledge and skills of the HNC in a range of specialist areas and also covers instrument design and the manufacture and repair of more complex instruments.

This qualification covers areas such as design, manufacturing preparation, instrument inlay and soundhole cutting techniques, manufacture of instrument body components, jig making, and wood machining.

This qualification is available through colleges. Typically, an HNC takes one year to complete and an HND takes two years to complete on a full-time basis. Part-time modes may also be available.

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Higher National Qualifications have been developed by SQA in partnership with colleges, universities, and industry, therefore, employers recognise that they provide sound evidence of ability and competence in specific vocational areas.

The unit-based structure supports flexibility. A unit is typically 40 hours of timetabled learning.

There is a wide choice of optional units which will enable centres to offer courses tailored to meet local needs.

The HNC and HND provide progression routes to further study (see Progression).

The HNC and HND Stringed Instrument Making and Repair are suitable for a wide range of candidates including:

  • school leavers with the appropriate entry requirements
  • adult returners to education
  • individuals in employment who wish to enhance their career prospects
  • people who wish to start their own business

Access

As with all SQA qualifications, entry is at the discretion of the centre. Examples of formal entry qualifications include:

  • completion of NC Stringed Musical Instrument Making & Repair at SCQF level 6 - centres may choose to offer entry to holders of NC Stringed Musical Instrument Making & Repair at SCQF level 5 where experience can be demonstrated
  • relevant work experience

Different combinations of relevant National Qualifications, vocational qualifications, and equivalent qualifications from other awarding bodies may also be acceptable.

Progression and employment

HNCs and HNDs can provide progression to degree-level study. For example, the HND in Stringed Instrument Making and Repair will allow the opportunity to articulate into the BA (Hons) Musical Instrument Craft at Lincoln College.

Those who complete the award could gain employment as repairers in music shops, instrument manufacturers, and importers. There could also be opportunities to work for bands and orchestras as a technician. The skills that are gained could also be used to move into other industries such as furniture making.

Centres with devolved authority for approval should use their own internal approval process.

Centres without devolved authority require to come forward for approval and should contact SQA's Business Development Team for guidance.

Assessors and verifiers must be able to meet SQA's general requirements for technical/occupational competence as outlined in the Systems and Qualification Approval Guide.

Each individual unit specification gives detailed information on the evidence requirements and approaches to assessment for each unit.

Ongoing course assessment will apply.

Assessment/e-assessment support packs will be available for this qualification.

HNC Stringed Instrument Making and Repair

Group award code: GM4D 15 (96 SCQF credit points)

HNC Stringed Instrument Making and Repair at SCQF level 7 consists of four mandatory units (48 SCQF credit points) and a selection of optional units to make up the required additional 48 SCQF points.

HND Stringed Instrument Making and Repair

Group award code: GP0W 16 (240 SCQF credit points)

HND Stringed Instrument Making and Repair at SCQF level 8 consists of eight mandatory units (120 SCQF credit points) and a number of optional units to make up the required additional 120 SCQF points.