2nd studio college approved

Second studio college approved to open in 2013

Proposals to open a second Studio College in Stoke-on-Trent have today been approved by the Department for Education.

The Studio College for Manufacturing and Design Engineering sponsored by Stoke-on-Trent College, will open in September 2013. 

This is in addition to the Studio College for Construction and Building Excellence, also sponsored by Stoke-on-Trent College, which opens this September based at the Centre of Refurbishment Excellence in Longton, and at the Discovery Academy in Bentilee.

This latest Studio College will welcome a total of 300 students aged between 14 and 19 years old and will be based at Stoke-on-Trent College’s Burslem site and at Haywood Engineering College, who are a partner in the project.

Sarah Robinson, Principal of Stoke-on-Trent College said: “We are delighted to sponsor another Studio School in the City. With the Studio School for Construction and Building Excellence in the south of the city, young people will have access to the best vocational learning in the area.”

A new concept in education, Studio College students study mainstream qualifications, including GCSEs in English, Maths and Science, alongside work based projects and work experience linked directly to employment opportunities in the local area, giving them hands-on skills tailored to the workplace.

As well as Haywood Engineering College, the City Council, and the North Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce, employers and partners involved with The Studio College for Manufacturing and Design Engineering include Michelin, Johnson Tiles, Steelite, Goodwins International and Kier.

Principal of Haywood Engineering College David Dickinson said: “We see this as a unique opportunity to further develop our links with local employers and to consolidate Haywood as a centre for excellence in engineering.”

Ann Moult from Johnson Tiles also welcomed the announcement.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to extend vocational provision in the city. We’re delighted to be part of this exciting partnership which will help to develop the talent pool in engineering, and help us to recruit the very best apprentices.”

David Nicoll, Chief Executive of the Studio Schools Trust, said:

“This new school is a ground breaking way in which to deliver education, combining mainstream qualifications with real experience of the world of work. The Studio College 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.”

or more information visit www.stokecoll.ac.uk, join us on facebook at http://www.facebook.com/StokeonTrentCollege

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