PROSPECTUS

R POTENTIA U L YO O T M R O F

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P "We will try and obtain perfection, well knowing we can't attain perfection and we'll achieve excellence along the way."

Vince Lombardi Dear Applicant, Welcome from the Principal Pg4 Overview Pg6 We are excited to welcome you to LS6, LeAF Studio’s provision. Why LS6? Pg6 LS6 Team Pg7 Within this prospectus we hope you will find everything LS6 Student Leadership Pg7 that you need to know before applying to LS6. If not, please do contact us. Student Experience Pg9 Pathways at LS6 Pg11 If you haven’t already attended an open evening or tour, we’d love the chance to meet you at an upcoming one. Entry Requirements Pg11 Specialism: Performing Arts Pg12 LS6 is a thriving place to be and we love working here Specialism: Sport Pg16 alongside talented young people everyday, helping them pave their future pathways in their specialism or beyond. A-levels Pg18 Facilities Pg22 We look forward to meeting you soon.

Funding Pg22 Dan Evans & Geoff Lake LS6 Alumni Pg23 Heads of Year 12 & 13 Opportunities Pg24 Sport: DEvans@leaf..sch.uk Connections Pg25 Stage: [email protected] Support, Guidance & Pastoral Care Pg26 Academics: [email protected]

How to Apply Pg27

Overall effectiveness Good Effectiveness of leadership and management Good Quality of teaching, learning and assessment Good Personal development, behaviour and welfare Good Outcomes for pupils 16 to 19 study programmes Good Overall effectiveness at previous inspection Good ‘Perform to your Potential’ is our mantra.

LeAF Studio is a vibrant, successful and oversubscribed Studio with a proven track record of enabling students to progress into careers within the sport and performing arts industries. Our unique approach enables students to focus on their dual careers – getting professional training within their specialism whilst also providing excellent academic support to enable all students to take the right career pathway for them as an individual.

In addition to the Sport and Performing Arts pathways (both based on-site at LeAF Studio) we have three offsite Post-16 satellite centres which ensure a genuine breadth in our curriculum, offering additional vocational pathways in music, acting and outdoor education. We actively promote and develop individual excellence and outstanding collaboration for all our students across the whole curriculum. Our teachers and industry specialist coaches support the development needs of each individual student ensuring that personal resilience and motivation are at the forefront of their skillsets as they embark on their careers.

Our students head off to the very best , specialist arts , apprenticeships, and jobs. They are incredibly successful and they recognise the support LeAF has given them on their paths to success, whether that is staying within their specialism pathway or moving onto a completely different career.

Whilst this level of professional training, expertise and support is normally reserved for private or fee-paying , we are unique in that we are able to do all this within a state-funded system and as such have been nationally recognised within our specialism areas.

I am proud to lead this thriving specialist school that, although based in Bournemouth, attracts students from all over the south coast of , from Yeovil and Weymouth to Southampton and Basingstoke. Want to find out more? Come and see us. You are always welcome and we would love the opportunity to show you around and demonstrate to you what makes LeAF Studio such a PAUL HOLMAN, DIRECTOR OF OUTCOMES, AMBITIONS TRUST dynamic and exciting family to be part of. “The principal communicates a clear vision for the school. She brings to life the school’s mission to provide a good all-round education for pupils who have a talent and passion for the performing arts or sport. As a result of her clarity of purpose, teachers, pupils, parents and carers are all committed to the school’s success.” (OFSTED, 2019) LS6 is a specialising in sport and Up to 24 hours of contact time each week performing arts. Based in Bournemouth, we provide a The independence of a with the support bespoke education for 16–19 year olds, combining a of a school rigorous academic curriculum with practical, vocational Dedicated Heads of Year training. Known personally by staff Outstanding pastoral care We opened in 2012 and moved into the state-of-the-art building in September 2013 which is proudly home to Fully supportive careers programme both Stage & Screen and the Athlete . Since Full range of enrichment opportunities September 2017 we have been part of the Ambitions Like-minded peers attending for the same goals Academies Trust, a local group of thirteen schools. Well connected with our industries Authorised absence for competitions, exams Recognised by Ofsted as a GOOD school with and events linked to your specialism outstanding features in 2019, we are regularly one of the Authroised absence for driving tests top Studio Schools in England in terms of both our A dedicated Sixth Form Centre for LS6 academic progress and vocational destinations. students only; including a kitchen area No expectation to remain on site during free Most internal and external students transition into LS6 with a clear specialism in either Sport or Performing Arts. periods Students can study vocational BTECs, academic Opportunities not offered at any other local A-levels or even a combination of both – all entirely Sixth Form/College dependent on their own career pathways. Train and study in both your specialism and academics Our aim is for every learner to be able to move Close to local shops and amenities seamlessly from LeAF Studio into employment, professional performance, or ; equipped with the necessary skills, knowledge and understanding to purposefully engage in all of the challenges and Proud of everything we do! opportunities they will experience. #PTBL #TeamLeAF At LS6, you will be well supported by a dedicated form tutor who doubles as your Head of Year. Within our dedicated Sixth Form team, we have a designated Safeguarding and Pastoral Lead who is available during your time with us. Nadine Lapskas Principal Dan Evans Geoff Lake Lucy Chewins Head of Y12&13 KS5 Safeguarding Lead & Tim Clark Head of Y12&13 Stage Pastoral Care Vice Principal Sport LS6 Academics Our LS6 staff team work with your success in the forefront of every decision. The LS6 Team will nurture, challenge and know you and your family personally. We want to see you achieve your goals and will support you in every way we possibly can.

Each year we appoint a student leadership team at LS6. This team comprises of a Head Boy and Head Girl, Deputies and three KS4 Advocates. These students follow an application process for their roles and complete a variety of tasks across the academic year. These roles include: Supporting main school and LS6 events Fundraising Planning the annual leavers prom Termly meetings with LS6 Leaders and LeAF Studio Leadership Supporting and mentoring main school students Providing crucial school improvement feedback

Written by LS6 students.

Being part of LS6 is not like staying in a a typical school sixth form. As a LS6 student, you can expect inclusivity, friendliness and fun!

In collaboration, Sport and Stage bond as one in the brand-new sixth form centre. This is located across the field from the main school, and includes a student kitchen, workspaces, toilets and a sociable chill area. Within this space, you can work with like-minded people and communicate with others from differing specialisms and backgrounds.

During your time at LS6, you will be exposed to 1-1 training, hands-on workshops, a personalised timetable and consistent student support. For example, past students have participated in school football matches, off-campus dance events, military training days, alumni performing arts workshops and much more. Through this, each individual is pushed to be their best self, whether that is in academics, training or general student life. Having this extra push allows students at LeAF to work towards their preferred career, whether that may be academic, specialism or a combination of both.

LeAF Studio Sixth Form stands out from other schools due to its promotion of individuality, abundance of opportunities and the overall student experience.

"I would recommend LeAF to anyone "I commit to a commute from "I am proud to be at LS6 as there is an who is looking for a career in Sport, Southampton everyday and I chose inclusive environment where LS6 because of the extra training they will get the best out of you. I am now applying for universities to study individuality is promoted. There is hours compared to other colleges in Sports Development to follow my dream such a welcoming atmosphere and my area. It has a professional of coaching at a professional level. My everyone supports what makes me, environment that will best prepare me head has fully turned to a bright future me! There is no judgement and I for the industry." thanks to the help and guidance that couldn't be happier" LeAF offer!" We are the 4th best Studio School in the United Kingdom (out of 30). Education Endowment Foundation

2019 Post-18 Destinations Data Specialism HE provider 58% Other HE provider 8% Midwifery 4% Specialism employment 12% Other employment 4% Undecided 8% FE provider 4% Gap year 4% 4% = 1 student PATHWAY 1 - Specialism Only 3 A-level equivalent BTEC course in either Performing Arts or Sport This pathway is suitable for those students who wish to study and train purely for their specialism.

PATHWAY 2- Specialism with A-level(s) BTEC course in either Performing Arts or Sport + 1 or 2 A-levels This pathway is suitable for those students who wish to study and train for a dual career.

PATHWAY 3 - Non-Specialism 3 A-levels This pathway is suitable for those students who wish to study Sport for an academic route. Minimum L5 in GCSE English and P.E (or Level 2 BTEC Sport Merit) Minimum L4 in GCSE Maths and Science

Performing Arts Minimum L5 in GCSE English and a Performing Arts subject if studied; Dance, Drama or Music (or Level 2 BTEC Merit) Minimum L4 in GCSE Maths

A-levels A-level subjects usually require a L6 in the same subject (or equivalent) at GCSE level. Some A-levels may carry additional entry requirements. These can be found on the A-levels pages. Unless is required, you must achieve at least a L4+ in English and Maths. Our intense two year, full-time Performing Arts programme provides students with a recognised qualification in Performing Arts equivalent to one, two or three A-levels. LS6 students receive up to 24 hours of contact time a week and up to 5 hours a week for events and productions.

Train and study in Acting, Singing, Dance and Musical Theatre, combining the best of focused, vocational training with excellent academic achievement to equip students with the diverse range of skills required in these highly competitive industries. Working with your existing training provider we will further develop and endorse your creative skill set. LeAF Stage & Screen provides learners with a strong grounding in the arts.

Your Training at LS6 Performance Opportunities 1:1 Singing Move It Convention, London Excel Acrobatic Arts Annual musical or variety showcase at Lighthouse, Acting Poole Acting through Song Intimate vocal evenings in-house and locally Audition Preparation Dance showcase in-house and locally ADVCo - Dance Company Local corporate events Ballet In-house plays Contemporary Dance Company Local care homes and adult learning centres Dance Termly performance assessments LAMDA Where next? Musical Theatre Vocational college/conservatoires Singing Specialism university Strength & Conditioning Teaching Tap Academic pathway at university UCAS and College Applications Employment in the industry Vocational Development/Integrated Performance Dual career EDEXCEL PEARSON BTEC L3 PERFORMING ARTS

Your BTEC Performing Arts course As part of your qualification you will explore a wide range of the Performing Arts industry including: Contextual studies of performing arts practitioners Devising and choreographing Exploration of dance and acting styles Musical theatre and its development Working from stimuli Developing performance skills Being a healthy performer Roles and interrelationships of creatives Performing to a range of audiences Creating a digital promotional portfolio

Why LS6 for Performing Arts? Workshops and auditions with some of the UK's top vocational colleges/universities Perform at the world's largest dance convention Perform locally at every opportunity Large amount of contact time A proven track record of alumni success A faculty of award-winning teachers and coaches Regular trips to the theatre ”We were all worried that, having never been at LeAF before, it would be hard for her to make friends and be noticed in amongst students you already know so well, but her whole experience so far since she started at LeAF has been brilliant, you have all been amazing and she loves it so much, it was definitely the right decision to move her.”

“Since joining LS6 my son has gone from strength to strength. He loves going to LeAF and is grateful for the amazing teaching. I would recommend to all!” “In my case: supporting the family as well as the student; staff being available and honest; feeling that the staff genuinely want the best for your child and they're not just ‘doing a job.’”

"The school really is outstanding, from the enthusiastic teaching staff to the fantastic opportunities she has received, her favourite being a dance lesson at Alvin Ailey Dance School in New York. LeAF has great connections to the industry and my daughter is fortunate enough to have benefited from regular workshops with some of the best theatre/dance colleges which has given her a realistic insight into her chosen career. I cannot recommend LeAF enough!"

“I only wish I’d known about this school two years earlier. I cannot recommend this school enough!” Our Sports specialism at LS6 provides students with a recognised qualification for the Sports industry, equivalent to one, two or three A-levels. LS6 students receive up to 24 hours of contact time a week and opportunties to train offsite with our Academy of Sport providers.

LeAF Athlete Academy combines the best of focused, vocational learning with excellent academic achievement to equip students with the diverse range of skills required in these highly competitive sporting sectors. Working in partnership with external coaches and clubs, our Sport Specialism provides learners with a comprehensive support network, in order to form and fulfil a successful dual career.

Your Training at LS6 Sporting Opportunities District, Regional and National School Competitions • Individualised Training Programmes ENOSS (European Network of Sports Schools) • Personalised Strength & Conditioning exchange opportunities • Dual Career Lifestyle Support (TALS) Overseas training camps and competition • TASS (Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme) accredited sessions Talent Identification sessions for various NGBs Coaching, sports development and other dual • Anthropometric Testing and Maturation screening career opportunities alongside sporting • Force Plate Data Analysis performance • Sport Psychology support Opportunities to complete coaching qualifications • Sports Nutrition guidance Where next? • Marketing and Sponsorship guidance Professional Sports contracts/careers • Rehab and Prehab Elite player performance pathway • UCAS and College Applications Dual Career Pathway • Sports Scholarships to USA etc Specialism university • Links with external coaches to give you a seamless provision between external and internal coaches Academic pathway at university Employment in the industry EDEXCEL PEARSON BTEC L3 SPORT

Your BTEC Sport course As part of your qualification you will explore a wide range of disciplines within the Sports industry including: • Sport and Exercise Science industries • Sports Coaching and Officiating industry • Sports Development & Business industries • Health and Personal Fitness industries • Sports Analysis Industry • Sports Psychology Industry • CV and professional dual career social media pages

Why LS6 for Sports Specialism? • True dual-career emphasis on developing both the academic and sporting aspirations of each student • Excellent workshops and trips to some of the UK's top colleges/universities within the sports industry • A fantastic provision of guest speakers offering advice and guidance for elite athletes • An exciting and engaging curriculum both for academic qualifications and industry approved coaching courses • A proven track record of alumni success • Experienced and knowledgeable teachers and coaches • Regular trips to sporting events and industry workplaces. At LS6 we offer the A-level subjects listed on these pages. A-level subjects are taught over 5 hours of lesson time per week. These can be taken on Pathway 2 and Pathway 3. A-level English Language & Literature (combined) Exam Board: AQA A-level Biology Exam Board: AQA Leading Teacher: Ms A Jennings Leading Teacher: Mr J Sorensen Summary: English Language & Literature combines skills from both disciplines in a varied study of literary fiction and non-literary texts. It will build on skills Summary: Students gain deeper knowledge and understanding of the living gained at GCSE and develop an understanding of linguistic and literary theory. world from the molecular level to complex systems and how organisms Specific entry requirements: L6+ in both English Language and Literature interact with our ever changing environment. GCSEs. A love of reading! Specific entry requirements: L6+ or equivalent in Science or Biology Works well with: Performing Arts, Sport, Psychology, History, Music Works well with: Performing Arts, Sport, Maths, English, Psychology Technology, Film Studies, Business

A-level Business Studies Exam Board: Edexcel A-level Film Studies Exam Board: Eduqas Leading Teacher: Mrs G Watt Leading Teacher: Mr C Dennett Summary: Those who study Film characteristically bring with them a high Summary: Students will build knowledge of core business concepts and apply degree of enthusiasm and excitement for what is a powerful and culturally them to business contexts to develop a broad understanding of how significant medium. Students will have the opportunity to study and analyse businesses work. More complex business information is developed in Themes films from varying genres, interesting styles and from around the globe. The 3 and 4, requiring students to take a more strategic view of business films are studied not only for their aesthetical appeal and narrative styles opportunities and issues. but also the social, cultural and historical contexts in which they were created. Specific entry requirements: L6+ Business Studies Specific entry requirements: L6+ Film Studies Works well with: Performing Arts, Sport, Maths, Psychology Works well with: Performing Arts, Sport, Business, English, History, Music Technology A-level History Exam Board: AQA Core Maths Exam Board: AQA Leading Teacher: Mrs H Taylor Leading Teacher: Mr W Edmonds

Summary: History is ideal for those who have an interest in politics in the past Summary: This course looks at aspects of Mathematics that are used in all and who want to find out why some countries were able to develop through sorts of industries and everyday finance; including credit cards and loans, peaceful methods while others experienced revolutions. taxation, changes in house prices. The exam uses real data and focuses on Specific entry requirements: L6+ History using data and calculations to make informed decisions. Works well with: Performing Arts, Sport, Psychology, English Specific entry requirements: L4+ in Maths Works well with: Performing Arts, Sport, Biology, Psychology, Business

A-level Mathematics Exam Board: Edexcel A-level Music Technology Exam Board: Edexcel Leading Teacher: Mr W Edmonds Leading Teacher: Mr K Hayman

Summary: Mathematics covers Core, Statistics and Mechanics. There are Summary: Music Technology gives learners the opportunity to develop and units that lead on directly from the higher content at GCSE. You will also hone skills in recording and production along with studying the key techniques explore new topics like Differentiation and Integration or Hypothesis testing. used by engineers and producers from the past and up to the present day. Specific entry requirements: L 6+ or equivalent in GCSE Maths Specific entry requirements: L6+ in Music or Music Tech Works well with: Performing Arts, Sport, Biology, Psychology, Business Works well with: Performing Arts, Sport, Film Studies, Business, Psychology, English A-Level Philosophy Exam board: AQA Leading Teacher: Mr R Stephenson "I've now chosen a career outside Summary: Philosophy considers questions that are fundamental to our of my specialism and I hope to existence. Questions such as: do humans have a soul? Does God exist or is take a Nursing degree at university the concept of morality really just a social invention? If you enjoy exploring and discussing such ideas in depth by constructing and and luckily for me my A-level and deconstructing powerful arguments, then Philosophy is a subject worth BTEC qualifications support this." pursuing. Specific entry requirements: L6+ in Philosophy or RE Works well with: Performing Arts, Sport, Psychology, Biology, Film Studies

A Level Psychology Exam board: AQA Leading Teacher: Mr R Stephenson "The reason I chose LS6 after Y11 is because LeAF emphasises dual Summary: Psychology will give you an understanding of the way careers. They help me push both people think and why people behave in certain ways. You will learn a variety of my academic ability and sport skills including analytical thinking, improved communication skills, problem training which supports my solving and many more that will prepare you for an exciting future with the possibility of a range of fantastic careers in nursing, policing, armed forces, aspiration of becoming a physio or social work and many more. accountant." Specific entry requirements: L6+ in Psychology and L5+ English, Maths and Science Works well with: Performing Arts, Sport, Philosophy Biology, English "The sixth form is growing rapidly. It provides high-quality teaching of practical subjects. Students are given good opportunities to develop their talents through a strong programme of additional opportunities and high-quality work experience." (OFSTED, 2019) At LeAF Studio, we are very proud of our facilities which provide state of the art learning environments for our students.

Some of our facilities include: Large indoor activities building (MSC) Strength and Conditioning centre Playing fields 3 Performing Arts studios Multi-purpose conference space Recording studio Dedicated Sixth Form Centre including a kitchen area

It’s completely FREE to study and train at LeAF Studio Sixth Form.

Students will usually have to pay for any specialist equipment, including their uniform. As with any other Post-16 provider, they may also be expected to pay for stationery, books and specialised events and field trips.

LS6 strive to subsidise and keep additional costs as low as possible. We operate a voluntary Training Fund which parents can donate to monthly to support the specialisms, including purchasing equipment and offering discounted vocational opportunities to our students.

There are lots of ways to receive further student discounts including NUS cards and many different student discount apps.

In addition, some students may be eligible for a bursary which is a means-tested fund to help support students in . When students leave LS6, they complete their final years of study and training at some of the country's most prestigious colleges and universities. Some students leave and head straight into their chosen industry, applying their training to the real world of work. We are proud to say that students leave LeAF Studio Sixth Form with a wealth of knowledge and outstanding training in their fields. Often our Performing Arts students receive offers to study and train at vocational colleges with funding/scholarships, along with our Sports students attending leading universities competing in the BUCS leagues or pursuing a dual career. Stage & Screen Destinations Athlete Academy Destinations Academic Destinations Addict Dance Academy AECC "LeAF got me into Arts Ed Bournemouth University Solent University vocational college and I Bird College Loughborough University University of Exeter wouldn't be here without Connecting Arts (Greece) Solent University University of Winchester them!" Cruise Ships St Mary’s Unversity Disneyland Paris Tournament Golf College Italia Conti UCFB Laine Theatre Arts University of Bath London College of Music University of Derby LSMT University of Gloucestershire Performers College University of Plymouth PPA University of Roehampton Reynolds Performing Arts University of South Rose Bruford Stella Mann College Teaching "Before LS6, I'd never The Brighton Academy considered university The Place and now, I'm here, with University of Chichester a pool of offers for my Urdang Academy future studies" Warner Leisure Hotels Wilkes Academy We are proud to boast connections with vocational colleges, universities and companies, regularly welcoming them to LS6 and visiting their facilities. We continue to build upon our industry links each academic year.

The school has an effective network of links with employers, universities and apprenticeship providers. Teachers offer comprehensive guidance and support to students as they make their career decisions. (OFSTED, 2019) Leaders make sure that pupils and sixth-form students are well prepared for the next stages of their Every LS6 student has the opportunity to participate in Performing Arts provides opportunities such as performing at education or employment a wide range of enrichment trips and activities, all Move It in London's ExCeL plus intimate in-house showcases designed to help support their specialism training. At culminating in our annual summer production which is usually by providing high-quality the heart of this lies our biennial sports tours and a full scale musical or variety showcase. Our Sports independent careers advice performing arts residentials, giving students a unique Specialism provides opportunities for students to visit, train and guidance. experience of training, competing and performing at the and compete abroad; exploring dual-career provisions at highest levels across Europe and the world. The Athlete leading Sporting Universities, access to Sporting Event (OFSTED, 2019) Academy take residential trips to Barcelona and Lisbon, management, along with hosting & delivering a variety of whilst the Stage & Screen biennial trip to New York has events for the local community onsite. been running since 2017. Our Specialisms are proud to welcome industry-leading All LS6 students partake in an annual team building day athletes, providers, creatives and performers as guest in September, which provides our students with the speakers, to share a plethora of real-life industry-based opportunity to form strong relationships across the experiences for our learners to adopt within their own whole cohort - regardless of specialism. professional development. All students are encouraged to develop their professional work portfolios for the future LS6 students unite at various points throughout the career aspirations they may have. academic year for in-house events to ensure that LS6 is a fun and fulfilling experience for all our learners. In addition to this, our cross-curricular links allow academic subjects to provide numerous opportunities to attend field We provide an unrivalled provision, enabling students to trips, screenings, performances and workshops which provide experience a range of events and competitions that our students with the very best experiences to enrich their equip them for their future, professional pathways. learning.

Careers Industry Mental Opportunities Events Health We've got you and your personal development covered!

UNIVERSITY & COLLEGE APPLICATIONS During Year 13 you will have access to 1:1 support and group sessions that focus on the UCAS and application process for university and vocational college. Your Specialism Lead will support you every step of the way in securing places at your chosen institutions. Should your career path change throughout your time at LeAF, our dedicated Careers Advisors will support you with your next steps.

CAREERS As LS6 students you are provided with the opportunity to attend our very popular Careers Opportunities, including the Move It Performing Arts Convention in London, our newly established Sports Specialism Careers Fayre and our Trust careers events. At these events, you will have the opportunity to meet with further and providers and employers to broaden your horizons and learn how you can progress in your chosen career pathway. In Year 12 you will also take part in a minimum of 2 weeks work experience in order to gain direct first-hand experience of the world of work.

TUTORIALS You will meet with your form tutor once a week but will also have regular access to your Head of Year. You are able to book 1 to 1 or small group sessions with your Head of Year and teachers to support your learning, studies or wellbeing.

PASTORAL CARE Our pastoral care is at the heart of what we do and woven through every pupil’s experience, fostering friendly relationships among our students and daily opportunities to speak openly to specialism teachers. LS6 students can further benefit from access to a dedicated KS5 Pastoral Lead and Deputy Safeguarding Lead. She is on hand to provide 1:1 emotional wellbeing support in the Sixth Form Centre, and triages students, when required, for a range of external support services.

LeAF Studio foster a whole school approach to promoting comfortable, happy, healthy, tolerant, resilient and safe students. Our open-minded KS5 pastoral support system surrounds the sixth formers at every level, enabling you to fulfil your potential and develop your passions. 1 Attend an Open Evening

If you wish to apply to LS6, you will need to complete Select your pathway and an application form. 2 course(s) Once completed, please post to: Admissions at LS6, LeAF Studio, Holloway Avenue, Bournemouth, , BH11 9JW

Once we have received your application form, we will Apply by completing and contact you to arrange a visit to LeAF Studio. 3 sending an application form

All applicants will follow this process.

Step 1 – Fully completed application form with supporting documents Attend an audition/assessment Step 2 – Audition/Assessment/Interview 4 Step 3 – Official Sixth Form Enrolment and interview 5 Receive application decision Part of the Ambitions Academies Trust

LeAF Studio Sixth Form, Holloway Avenue, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH11 9JJ Tel: 01202 578886 | www.leafstudio.co.uk | [email protected] Facebook: LeAF Studio School | Instagram: @leafstudioschool