Walsall Studio School

A strong commitment to academic rigour and vocational excellence.

Walsall Studio School opened in 2013 in response to the overwhelming need for a different approach to education and training for students in Walsall and the surrounding areas. It is the first and only Studio School serving the Black Country and surrounding areas. Local businesses and employers help design and shape the school curriculum and educational opportunities for students throughout the year.

As one of the most successful 14-19 Academies in the country Walsall Studio School students study GCSEs and other technical, vocational subjects in Y10 and Y11 followed by A Levels and vocational diplomas in the sixth form. Since opening the school has seen 60% of students progressing onto university or further study and 40% directly into employment including apprenticeships. The school’s value added / progress score is significantly above the national average within the top 5% of 14-19 academies in the country.

The studio school prides itself on transforming young people from school students to young, creative professionals ready for the world of work. It is a small school of 300 students and places significant emphasis on tailoring educational projects for individual students. Recognising that every student is unique, the studio school personalises learning experiences that enable students to make accelerated progress.

As well as a strong commitment to academic rigour and vocational excellence, the school (through it’s team of personal coaches) invests significantly in the personal development, support and wellbeing of students. Students describe the studio school as a community they belong to not just a school they attend (Ofsted 2015) and make a positive contribution to the local community and wider society through a range of innovative projects and events (both entrepreneurial and creative) throughout each year.

  • Walsall Studio School is designated a Lead School for Maths by the National College for Teaching & Leadership.
  • Walsall Studio School is a member of the National Studio Schools Network.
  • Walsall Studio School is a founding academy of the Mercian Trust.

Find out more Ofsted report