Since 1999, APC has been using LCM Graded examinations in traditional music to assess our pupils' progress. APC pupils achieved 100% success in 06-07 exams with a high proportion achieving top grades.

Graded through from Grades 2-8, Dip.LCM, ALCM and LLCM, pupils can achieve recognised qualifications in traditional music, eventually leading to teaching qualifications. Marks obtained at Grade 6 & 8 earn UCAS points and count towards university entrance.

Examinations are held in Armagh three times during the year, in Winter, Spring & Summer.

Although these exams are not compulsory, we find that they provide pupils with a valuable indicator of their progress. We recommend that pupils take an LCM exam every second year; Autumn & Spring exams are more suitable for secondary school pupils, as June exams seem to clash with school exams, school trips & Gaeltacht courses; Spring & Summer exam dates are usually better for primary school pupils.

Since a couple of years, we have set our own preliminary examinations and only enter LCM exams from Grade 2 level. We also advise pupils not to enter for Grade 8 until they are confident of obtaining Honours, since this is worth 75 UCAS points ( 80 points = C at A2 level), whereas a Pass is only worth 55 UCAS points.