Welcome to a new type of

Call 01305 215215 – then select option Email [email protected] Web www.dorsetstudioschool.co.uk Address Dorset Studio School, Dorchester, Dorset DT2 8PY

www.facebook.com/dorsetstudioschool

@DorsetStudioSch

Dorset Studio School is an and part of a network of similar supported by the Studio Schools Trust. This information is correct at time of publication (August 2013) and may be subject to change without prior notice. Students will experience an exciting and vibrant learning environment

This school is ideally suited to young people who are passionate about and committed to developing the skills and qualifications required for careers in land and countryside management, animal conservation and welfare, outdoor activities, agriculture and food & horticulture.

Students will experience an exciting and vibrant learning environment that encourages and develops independent thought, self-discipline, motivation and confidence, devoted to the rounded education and future of young people who are interested in a career in countryside, many young people are passionate about, and rural and coastal environments. combine it with the technical and personal skills A pioneering employers want? Dorset Studio School is co-sponsored by a Dorset Studio School offers this new concept in unique partnership with Kingston Maurward education, where 13–19 year olds can benefit (KMC) - a specialist land-based approach to learning from a different model of learning that captures institution - and The and channels potential to the highest levels. Thomas Hardye School (THS) a specialist Dorset Studio School is an Academy and part of a science school. Key employer partners The Dorset Studio School will open in September national network of similar schools supported by include the National Trust, the RSPCA, the 2014, welcoming students to a brand new the Studio Schools Trust. Royal Veterinary College and many other specialist school designed to equip young people local businesses. with the skills, knowledge and experience they Located in Dorchester, in the heart of Dorset, require to succeed in work. the Studio School will specialise in environment This combination of high-profile employers, and land-based sciences. It will explore how the a dynamic school and a successful FE college Choosing a school can often be a tough decision land works to deliver educational excellence will offer Dorset Studio School students the – but what if you were offered the choice of and opportunity by making the most of our rich best start to progress into post-16 education, small class sizes, the opportunity to continue the natural resources while responding to employer apprenticeships, and employment. National Curriculum, specialise in a subject area and wider community needs. www.dorsetstudioschool.co.uk 3 Our Values Caring – Be interested in your school and the other students and concerned about their welfare. The Dorset Studio School aims to make a Look out for others, do not bully real difference to the lives of local students, Considerate - Respect others and their property. employers and parents. Take care not to inconvenience or hurt others. Open doors and clear up your litter We are creating a school that will: Communicative – Be willing to talk and pass on offer a real choice and alternative information to other students and teachers. Get to existing provision your ideas across and open up in class breaks down the artificial barriers between Courteous – Be polite and demonstrate good school and the workplace manners (please, thank you, put your hand up) give young people an opportunity to Co-operative – Work with others in a helpful way. shine based on their real abilities, passions Be willing to do things when asked to and interests Conscientious – Be honest and do the right provides local businesses with future thing. Get involved in all aspects of school. Get employees with the relevant workplace ethic, things done and follow through a task culture, skills, knowledge and experience. Confident – Be positive and sure, saying I CAN (not I CAN’T). Feel able to talk and listen to. We will achieve this using a team of highly talented people and leaders, with a record of Students will be challenged and encouraged outstanding performance. to be the best they can be within a highly supportive environment. Let’s Get to Work As part of the Dorchester Area Schools Partnership (DASP) Citizen Scheme, the Dorset Studio School Student success is at the heart of the school’s has signed up to the partnership’s Community curriculum and the school plans for outstanding Dorset Studio School students will study for GCSE Progress Charter and believes students should be: performance from all students alongside preparing qualifications in Maths, English, IT and double The Dorset Studio School will provide a significant them to operate effectively in the world of work. Science at ages 13–16 and a range of nationally first step towards a career in environment and recognised qualifications including A-levels, land-based sciences. diplomas and apprenticeships post 16. The qualifications offered by the school will The big difference is that education is also taken provide a unique blend to allow students the out of the classroom, with students learning in the option to progress to an apprenticeship, enter real world through employer-led projects, work the workplace with high-level skills or go on to experience and the CREATE framework – a set of . employability and personal development skills. For further information about CREATE, see page 10. All routes and qualifications are recognised and approved by industry and . Alongside the National Curriculum, all students will follow a structured, project-based approach to learning and gain real work experience with Dorset businesses to develop vital business skills such as teamwork and project management needed for the world of work.

www.dorsetstudioschool.co.uk 5 Land-Based Is it right for Specialists me as a student?

Located at the heart of this rural However, there is still a need for animal welfare You will study the core GCSE subjects English, a block of work experience for 9 weeks. From age county, Dorset Studio School will jobs at higher levels. Higher level technical skills Maths, double Science and IT alongside a choice 16 your placements will last at least two days specialise in environment and land-based are required for research and development of of vocational subjects linked to the environment a week. sciences. This sector is critical to the success new vaccines and skills relating to animal disease and land-based sciences. of not only the region but also the UK. control, disease identification and biosecurity. Enrichment Activities Working one-to-one with your own learning Food 2030 strategy has increased Government Dorset holds a key position in the country with coach, you will be able to develop a personalised Young people need to be physically as well as interest in food security and self-sufficiency. a strong mixed farming community which offers learning programme that excites you as you mentally active. The Dorset Studio School will Combined with consumer demand for greater a diverse range of careers, from environmental develop the skills and knowledge you need to allow students to participate in a highly enriched food quality, traceability and quality assurance, it science and food production to crop and animal succeed in your career aspirations, whether these programme of activities and provide stretch is predicted there will be a 52,000 job shortage in management. involve higher education or employment. and challenge for learners of all abilities. All our the agriculture industry by 2020. students will have an opportunity to take part The Dorset Studio School will support young In addition, your learning will be supported in outdoor activities that include orienteering, Other skills areas include business practices to people to develop skills for careers in these vital by a personal coach who will help you with kayaking, canoeing, high/low ropes, climbing respond to climate change; use of waste as a growth areas by providing the qualifications your studies and link all aspects of school life – wall, mountain biking and archery. resource; nutrition and agronomy. and hands-on experience required to work including work experience – and ensure that you at the highest level in land and countryside keep on track, achieve your potential and enjoy Other special interest enrichment activities will Higher standards are now required for all management, animal conservation and welfare, your time at the school. include photography, film making, art, drama people working with animals and codes outdoor activities, agriculture and food & and STEM clubs. Volunteering schemes (for of practice are driving up standards for horticulture. You will be partnered with local employers in example, Duke of Edinburgh expeditions, National the care and transportation of animals. individually tailored work experience that reflects Citizenship Scheme), trips and employer-led field your interests and talents and allows you to work trials will also provide opportunities for develop key employability skills in preparation for students to immerse themselves in an interest the world of work. or discover a hidden talent. Personal and social development will also be fully integrated into From Year 10 you will spend at least 4 hours a the curriculum. week preparing for work experience together with www.dorsetstudioschool.co.uk *Lantra 2011 7 Studio School Typical Week

The Dorset Studio School day is slightly longer Sports/Enrichment Activity than a traditional school, which is deliberate Includes a range of sporting and other activities and models itself closely on a business day – to challenge and develop team working skills and preparing students for the world of work. self-confidence.

Key Facts Attend 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday Work Experience 42 (weeks divided into three terms) Preparation for work experience in weekly timetable. Personal Coach Meetings From Year 10 you will spend at least 4 hours for Parents Students will sit down with their coach to track a week preparing for work experience together progress and help set goals. with a block of work experience for 9 weeks. For post 16 students, two days a week will be We recognise that you as parents/guardians/ We will ensure that parents, guardians or carers: Learning Coach Meetings spent in work placement. carers play a key role in selecting a school that is Students will sit down with their coach to discuss Independent learning and project work. right for your child, and that this can sometimes are clear about our vision and what we their project-based learning objectives. Students commit to regular independent study, be a daunting experience. aim to achieve either at home or in the school. have easily understandable and up-to-date Project Activity This develops their critical thinking and learning The Dorset Studio School provides you with a information on their child’s progress Mornings may be spent working on employer skills that will make them more attractive fantastic opportunity to choose an educational are encouraged to be part of the projects with the student’s learning coach. to employers. establishment that gives young people the best Studio School community possibility of a successful career. are able to have regular access to teachers, Lunch learning and personal coaches to discuss Students will have access to healthy snacks and The qualifications gained with us will offer students their child’s progress. lunches at our on-site café. the chance of employment or to continue their studies further. They will gain key qualifications, Protecting young people Academic Activity choose from a range of vocational options and Student safety and well-being is paramount. A minimum of two hours a day GCSE single subject develop skills and attitudes that will prepare them We are required to take any reasonable action to teaching – delivered by The Thomas Hardye School for the transition from education to employment. ensure the safety of our students. If teaching or teaching staff. non-teaching staff are concerned that one of our The Dorset Studio School will be a small school students may be subject to ill-treatment, neglect Specialist Vocational Activity with a maximum capacity of 375 students and the or any form of abuse, then we will inform the Using the outdoor classroom to gain skills dress code will reflect the professional identity of designated Safeguarding Officer at Dorset Studio to achieve a vocational Level 2 the school. School. Our policy is consistent with national qualification – e.g. BTEC Level 2 standards for Safeguarding Procedures. Diplomas in land-based activities. We believe that a strong relationship between the school and parents, guardians or carers is essential.

www.dorsetstudioschool.co.uk 9 Relating Emotional The Studio School Communication to Others Enterprise Applied Thinking Intelligence Learners Learners can Learners Learners Learners can Learners can convey successfully can develop, understand process ideas understand information interact with implement and are able to to make and can and ideas so others in a and learn eff ectively apply reasoned manage their that they are range of roles from ideas. their skills to judgements own and Curriculum (13-16) received and and situations. a variety of and solve others’ understood by situations and problems. emotions. others. contexts. Year 9, 10 and 11 students will still follow the Project design will integrate core GCSEs together National Curriculum and gain the same key with vocational qualifi cations and embed School and Understanding qualifi cations as at a traditional school. key employability, enterprise and personal Select Relate Launch Use Learning Myself development skills. Family and Plus Organise Collaborate Plan Research Managing Myself Relationships Vocational Level 2 qualifi cations e.g. BTEC Through the Studio School, students will be Work and Understanding Level 2 Diplomas in land-based activities. inspired to pursue pathways in environment and Deliver Steer Execute Decide Employment Others Preparation for and actual work experience. land-based sciences, and to become skilled and My Local Personal/moral/social/cultural understanding enterprising professionals. Refl ect Managing Others Community including cultural exchange with other schools and overseas study tours. The curriculum off ers post-16 programmes of Wider World Enrichment options e.g. sports, volunteering, study which present three pathway options: events/visits, and academic study/additional awards. Land-based management Outdoor adventure management The CREATE framework has been developed Enterprise These will be personalised to meet individual Animal, plant or sports science. specifi cally for Studio Schools in order to equip Students can develop opportunities, think needs. The curriculum delivery through students with the essential skills that will help creatively, make decisions and implement them, enterprise projects will exploit fully the Each pathway will be determined by an them think creatively, build resilience and fl ourish learn from taking risks. outdoor classroom of heathland, appropriate A-level and supported by a relevant in life and work. woodland, rivers and world heritage Level 3 vocational qualifi cation. Applied Skills coastline as well as the estate’s CREATE stands for Communication, Relating To Students understand and are able to take their farmlands and park, workshops, What is the Others, Enterprise, Applied Skills, Thinking Skills knowledge and skills and apply them eff ectively machinery, tools and equipment. CREATE Framework? and Emotional Intelligence. It will be used by in a range of contexts both inside and outside the coaches to track students’ development. classroom environment. Each project will address an Evidence consistently shows that employers are issue and have a diff erent concerned about gaps in key employability and Communication Thinking Skills fi nal product – e.g. life skills among school leavers. Students can convey information, ideas and Students can test and process ideas and opinions booklet, DVD, etc. thoughts eff ectively and appropriately to others in to make reasoned judgements to solve problems. The Dorset Studio school will address this issue a range of roles and situations. directly by following the CREATE framework Emotional Intelligence within the curriculum. Relating to Others Students understand and are aware of their Students can interact successfully with others in a emotions and behaviours and how they can range of roles and situations, from all walks of life, impact on others. and learn how to understand their perspective and build productive relationships. www.dorsetstudioschool.co.uk 11 Education/Career Progression Pathways

Key Stage 3 4 FE/HE/Employment Options

Apprenticeships Higher Education Local or national Universities

Further Education or Vocational Learning Higher Apprenticeships Training Programmes

or Dorset Dorset Further Education (Full Time) Studio Studio School School or (13–16) (16–19)

Employment with Training Employment

or

Feeder Secondary Schools Feeder School/ Full Employment College Academic Learning or Employment Volunteer Project Work (with Training) Connecting to Business I express my wholehearted support for the Dorset Studio School. Ensuring that the practical skills of Recent employer surveys show that a shortage Research shows that by working with Studio of young people with relevant employability and Schools, employers can improve their productivity 14–19 year olds are well rooted in the real world is vital life skills is one of the biggest threats to the future and competitiveness. The Dorset Studio School for many local industries, especially agriculture. As a partner success of Dorset and UK businesses. is committed to fulfilling the needs of local academic establishment to Kingston Maurward College employers and aims to provide them with skilled working together on a number of ventures, I wish to offer our Bridging this gap and providing future young and motivated future employees who will add real active support and guidance. employees with these essential skills is at the value to the organisation. heart of the Dorset Studio School. Dr Nick J. Bell MA VetMB PhD MRCVS Lecturer in veterinary livestock extension services, Royal Veterinary College (South of England) Employers are instrumental in shaping and Employers delivering the Studio School curriculum. They will You can ensure that young people develop commission and assess student projects, provide the key employability and life skills required guest lecturers and liaise with personal coaches in today’s businesses by helping to shape We are happy to support the Dorset Studio School. As an employer based on the regarding skills development. the curriculum. If you are interested in college campus, we are able to offer real work experience on site and, working helping to focus the future of the Dorset with us, pupils at the Studio School would be able to take part in enterprise projects Studio School, please contact us. relating to management and fundraising activities. We can also help students plan career opportunities within voluntary sector organisations.

Fiona Renouf For and on behalf of RSPCA West Dorset Branch www.dorsetstudioschool.co.uk 13 Our Inspiring Location

Located in Dorchester, in the heart of Dorset, the modern Learning Resources Centre, fi tness the Studio School is set within the beautiful facilities and café. Kingston Maurward College campus. Artist’s Impression of the new school building Kingston Maurward College has had a long and The college has a 280 hectare commercial proud tradition of working closely with the rural farm, landscaped grounds, gardens and lake, and business sector. The college works closely Animal Farm Park visitor attraction, international in partnership with Bournemouth University, standard Equestrian Centre and professional Plymouth University, The Royal Agricultural outdoor activities facilities. University, The Royal Veterinary College and Thomas Hardye School. The school will operate from its own brand Applying for a place new state-of-the-art building with modern In recognition of its commitment to ongoing teaching and learning spaces that refl ect a people development Kingston Maurward workplace environment. Studio School students College is proud to have been awarded the Dorset Studio School will be part of Online will benefi t from the new on campus £3 million Customer Service in Excellence and Investors in the Local Authority co-ordination of Our website and Facebook page Animal Science building and will have access to People accreditation. admissions arrangements for 13 –16 year are updated regularly. olds and applications for places must be www.dorsetstudioschool.co.uk sent to the Local Authority www.facebook.com/dorsetstudioschool The Thomas Hardye School (www.dorsetforyou.com/schooladmissions). Twitter @DorsetStudioSch

Thomas Hardye School (THS) has some 2,400 To fi nd out more about the Dorset Studio School students, including a Sixth Form of about 880 whatever their background or faith or origin. or arrange an informal conversation, students, the largest in the UK. With a relentless optimism that every young please contact the Project Manager at person can achieve and progress, THS is [email protected] or THS is committed to the holistic development always striving to ensure all students develop call 01305 215215 and select the of its students, building their intellectual, new skills and a love of learning that will last option for Studio School. social, moral and physical skills based on the throughout their lives and prepares them belief that every student has special skills and to be successful and leave school with the talents that need to be nurtured. These are the qualifi cations to get on the right university or Mere values that have helped create a culture that college course or the right employment route Wincanton celebrates the success of all young people, with training. Gillingham

Shaftesbury

Yeovil Sherborne Sturminster Newton Cranborne

Verwood Blandford

Beaminster Wimborne Ferndown Maiden Newton Corfe Mullen Puddletown Bridport Bournemouth Bere Regis Equal Opportunities Dorset Studio School believes that everyone has the right to be valued as individuals Poole Lyme Regis Dorset and have equality of opportunity, regardless of race, colour, nationality, ethnic origin, gender, disability, Dorchester Studio School Wareham Christchurch sexual orientation, religion or belief. Wool

Weymouth www.dorsetstudioschool.co.uk Swanage 15 Portland