Latest news from the proposed Isle of Wight Studio School from Laura. Ed
Proposals to open the first ever studio school on the Isle of Wight have today been officially approved by the Department for Education.
Those behind the school have welcomed the move and say it will give parents and their children a “real choice” when it comes to education on the island.
The Isle of Wight Studio School will cater for up to 300 14 to 19-year-olds when it opens from its specially refurbished campus in Grange Road, East Cowes, in September 2014.
Brand new state school model
Studio Schools are a brand new state school model for 14 to 19 year olds of all abilities. They seek to address the growing gap between what young people require to succeed in life and the skills and knowledge that the traditional education system provides.
The Isle of Wight Studio School, part of a network of similar schools supported by the Studio Schools Trust, will offer students the opportunity for learning, combining study for traditional examinations with real experience of the world of work.
Working with local businesses
The school will work closely with local businesses to shape its curriculum and specialise in marine manufacturing and offshore energy. The bid has the support and commitment of Gurit, Vikoma, Navitus Bay, Vestas, IFPL and the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce.
Between ages 14 and 16 students at Isle of Wight Studio School will gain GCSE qualifications in English, maths, double science and information technology and take part in work placements, developing their employability and work skills and a full range of extra curricular and physical activities. Post 16 they choose from a variety of qualifications, including A-levels and apprenticeships.
Small class sizes
Students will learn in small class sizes through individually structured pathways, each guided by their own personal coach, to inspire learning and develop independence and confidence.
The bid for the Isle of Wight Studio School was put forward by the same team behind the Southampton Studio School, which is already seeing spaces fill ahead of its opening this September.
Helen Mason, Project Director of Isle of Wight Studio School, said: “We are delighted that our bid to establish Isle of Wight Studio School has been successful. It will give parents across the island a real choice when it comes to their children’s education as it marries academic excellence with vital work experience, employability and vocational skills.”
Part of a network of 44 Studio Schools
David Nicoll, Chief Executive of the Studio Schools Trust, commented: “We are delighted that Isle of Wight Studio School has been approved to open, which will be part of a network of 44 Studio Schools across England.
“Studio Schools are playing a vital role in equipping young people with the skills and experience that they need to succeed in a competitive jobs market, through combining qualifications with real experience of the world of work. Employers are keen to help prepare young people for the workplace, and Studio Schools allow them to get involved in all aspects of school life – from designing the curriculum and delivering masterclasses, to providing paid work placements and mentoring students.
“Isle of Wight Studio School will play an important role in shaping the future workforce across the region, and providing new opportunities for young people as well as improving their employment prospects and life chances”
