Based in the heart of the historic town of Knutsford, Cheshire Studio School offers a contemporary secondary education to students in Years 10 to 13. Cheshire Studio School is based on the main Knutsford Academy site and opened in September 2014.
Our expectations are high. We insist on exemplary conduct and encourage all students to do their best in all that they do and to play a full part in the many extra-curricular activities that we offer. We have extraordinary students here and a talented group of staff, who work hard together to deliver our vision of academic excellence, a strong community and world-class opportunities. We have an enviable track record in preparing our young people for higher education, apprenticeships and the world of work.
A Different Choice of Options
Cheshire Studio School takes a different approach to the Academy with a focus on core academic achievement combined with more vocational qualifications and employability skills which prepare students for the working world.
At Key Stage 4, this dual focus is reflected in the GCSE core subject curriculum including Maths, English Language and Literature and Double Science, which is delivered jointly with Knutsford Academy, a range of vocational level 2 options which are predominantly BTEC Level 2 qualifications, which include Construction or Hospitality & Catering, and Health & Social Care and a work experience placement.
At Key Stage 5, students can combine two or more BTEC or level 3 courses centred around subjects in the areas of Business and Enterprise, Creative Industries and Sport and Wellbeing, with A Levels and a work experience placement. The curriculum offers subject progression between from Key Stage 4 into Key Stage 5. Cheshire Studio School also provides the opportunity to retake Maths and English GCSE if needed.
Cheshire Studio School is also the home of our successful Football Academy which combines elite football coaching and competitive fixtures with a BTEC Level 3 Sport programme, one other choice of A Level or BTEC and access to the Soccer Scholars USA initiative. The football team are current Cheshire Cup and League Champions.
Employability
To help students prepare for the working world we work with an extensive range of businesses both local and global who help to bring the working world to life. This can be through interactive and business focussed workshops or specific projects. In addition, all students participate in work experience on a frequent basis with an extensive range of businesses.
Positive Student Feedback
Our recent Student Survey highlighted the positive views which students have about the teaching and learning and courses which Cheshire Studio School provides.
Teaching and Learning: 91% of our students said that teaching and learning is good or better.
Enterprise and Entrepreneurship feedback: 'Teaching was excellent, support was excellent, exam preparation was excellent and the way the lessons were delivered was very suited to my learning type.'
Health and Social Care feedback: ‘Teachers were really good at breaking topics down into key units so it wasn’t so overwhelming and they were good at giving me support when I needed it.’
Criminology feedback: ‘A lot of engagement in class, lots of class discussions, plenty of revision help and resources.’
Do let us know if you would like to visit Cheshire Studio School. I am very proud of our students and their achievements and would be delighted to show you around.
Mrs Karen Key
Headteacher for Knutsford Academy & Cheshire Studio School
