Drum Exams & Qualifications: AMEB Rockschool vs Trinity Rock & Pop

We can run both AMEB Rockschool and Trinity Rock & Pop exams as online/video exams right here at Backbone, done during your child's normal lesson time whenever they're ready. No separate appointment needed.

Here's the quick overview of how the two syllabuses compare.

Quick note: you don't need to do exams at all, if you don't want to. Everything examinable is already covered in our regular lessons through our own curriculum (https://www.backbonedrumschool.com/free-drum-exercise-books). Formal exams just add a recognised certificate, which helps for WACE units in Years 10-12 (Grade 5/6 from either board, capped at 4 units total across Years 11-12) and for music scholarship applications.

Want to dig into the WACE details yourself? See AMEB's WACE guide, Trinity's recognition page, and SCSA's endorsed programs page.

AMEB Rockschool

Nine levels (Debut, then Grades 1-8). AMEB run in person exams at UWA a few times a year (check the AMEB exam timetable for dates), or you can do a video exam, submitted whenever your child's ready. Same price either way. 2026 fees run from $140 (Debut) up to $272 (Grade 8). Books cost about $50 each, and we stock them at Backbone so you can pick one up when you need it.

Trinity Rock & Pop

Nine levels (Initial, then Grades 1-8), then Diplomas. Trinity exams here are done online, during a normal lesson slot. We’ll facilitate the recording submission processes when your child's ready. Fees vary by grade (roughly $100 to $280). Books cost roughly $40 to $50 each.

At a glance

	AMEB Rockschool	Trinity Rock & Pop
Levels	Debut, Grades 1-8	Initial, Grades 1-8, then Diplomas
Exam formats	In person (a few times a year at UWA) or video, anytime	Online only in Perth right now
Where it happens	In person at UWA, or video during a BBDS lesson	Online, during a BBDS lesson
2026 exam fees	$140 to $272	~$100 to $280
Book cost (approx.)	$50, available through us.	$40-50, available through us.
Exam style	Set pieces, technical exercises, sight reading, improvisation	3 songs plus one Session Skills test
WACE (Grade 5/6, Years 10-12)	Yes	Yes

Already been learning with us for a while? You don't necessarily need to start at Debut/Initial. Depending on where your child's at, they may be able to jump straight into a higher grade. Chat to their teacher if you're interested.

Not sure which one? Either gets your child to a great standard. Ask us and we'll point you the right way! :)