LCME Early Learning

Early Learning 2025

About LCME Early Learning

LCME Early Learning provides a joyful introduction to performance for our youngest candidates. Designed specifically for children aged 3 to 6, these qualifications create positive first experiences that build confidence and develop foundational performance skills.

Our Early Learning approach celebrates each child's unique creativity through:

• Encouraging assessment that focuses on effort and enjoyment

• Positive feedback that nurtures confidence and self-expression

• Flexible activities including nursery rhymes, songs, poetry, mime, and simple instrumental performance

• A supportive environment where every achievement is recognised and celebrated

Whether performed individually or as part of a group, Early Learning assessments help young performers discover the joy of sharing their talents while developing essential skills for future learning.

Download the Early Learning syllabus (PDF)

Qualification structure

Individual Early Learning

Stages available: 1, 2, 3

Individual assessments offer a personal performance experience where children can:

• Choose from songs, nursery rhymes, poetry, or simple instrumental pieces

• Perform in a supportive, one-to-one environment with a friendly examiner

• Receive individualised feedback celebrating their unique strengths

• Progress at their own pace through the three stages

Group Early Learning

Stages available: 1, 2, 3

Group assessments celebrate collaborative creativity where children can:

• Stages 1 & 2: Participate in interactive activities and guided creative expression (5-9 children per group)

• Stage 3: Present established group performances such as school plays or specially prepared group activities

• Experience the joy of performing together while receiving individual recognition

• Develop social skills and teamwork alongside performance abilities

Individual recognition: Every child in a group assessment receives their own individual certificate, ensuring each participant's contribution is recognised and celebrated.

Updated 2025 syllabus: What's changed?

From 1 July 2025, our Early Learning Syllabus 2025 offers the following:

Simplified structure

• One Early Learning subject replaces separate Music and Drama designations

• Early Learning Spoken English withdrawn as it offered identical content to regular Early Learning

• Candidates choose songs OR spoken verse to showcase their talents

• Same nurturing approach, clearer structure

Enhanced group options

• New Early Learning Group Stage 3 for established group performances

• Perfect for school plays or planned group activities

• Individual certificates for every group participant

Complete format flexibility 

All assessments are available as:

• In-person with LCME examiners

• Recorded using digital submission

Transparent assessment

• Assessment criteria now included directly in the syllabus

• Clear guidance for teachers, parents, and candidates

Transition period

The previous syllabus expired on 30 June 2025. Please note that while we typically allow for a 12-month overlap period with a new syllabus launch, no overlap period is necessary for our updated Early Learning Syllabus 2025, as the requirements remain unchanged (with increased flexibility and options), and only the names have been altered. To find out more about the change, click here.