Level 3 Sound, Recording and Production
L3SORC Course DescriptionHead of Faculty/Teacher in Charge: Mr E. Mead.
Recommended Prior LearningNo previous musical knowledge is required, but an interest in music, sound, and computers is essential. NCEA Level 1 is an advantage.
Level 3 Sound Technology is an advanced, hands-on course designed for students ready to take their audio production skills to the next level. You’ll deepen your understanding of the art and science behind recording, editing, mixing, and mastering sound using industry-standard software and hardware.
Throughout the course, you’ll explore the creative and technical processes behind music production, sound design, and live engineering. You’ll develop practical skills in acoustics, signal flow, microphone techniques, and digital audio environments, and apply these in both studio and live settings.
Students will take the lead in running sound for school events, especially our end-of-term concerts, using Kaiapoi High School’s professional-grade auditorium sound system. You’ll also work toward real-world outcomes by designing and delivering a sound setup for a live performance or production.
This course is perfect for students pursuing careers in music production, film and media sound, live event tech, or audio engineering.
Course Overview
What is taught in courses varies from year to year. This course could include:
US 32305 – Apply knowledge of sound design for a specific context (5 credits)
Learn how to plan sound for a real event or production. You’ll explore how music and sound contribute to meaning and audience experience.
US 32304 – Demonstrate knowledge of sound design components and processes (5 credits)
Build technical knowledge of the tools, concepts, and workflows used in professional sound design and production.
US 31140 – Demonstrate knowledge of acoustics and psychoacoustics for a sound design purpose (5 credits)
Dive into how sound behaves in different environments and how humans perceive it—essential knowledge for any sound technician or producer.
US 32374 – Develop a sound design for a specified brief (5 credits)
Using your creative and technical knowledge, you’ll plan an original sound design to meet a specific client or performance brief.
US 32375 – Realise a sound design for a specified brief (5 credits)
Put your plan into action! Set up, operate, and deliver a complete sound design, whether in a live, recorded, or mixed-media setting.
Career Pathways
Musician, Game Developer, Film and Video Editor, Sound Technician, Film/Television Camera Operator, Director (Film, Television, Radio or Stage), Radio Presenter, Media Producer, Production Assistant (Film, Television, Radio or Stage)