The Sir Frank Whittle Studio School, which will be sponsored by Lutterworth College, will be the first in the area and will open in September 2014.

Schools Minister Lord Nash said:
 
“I am delighted to be approving such a strong field of Studio Schools to the next stage. More employers are getting involved in Studio Schools, demonstrating their commitment to preparing young people – who will be their future employees – to the world of work.
 
“It is crucial for young people to have the skills and experience vital to employers, both for their own prosperity and to help us compete in the global race.” 

Background to the School

The Sir Frank Whittle Studio School will welcome a total of 300 students aged between 14 and 19 years old, and will offer mainstream qualifications (including GCSEs, A Levels, and vocational and professional qualifications) linked to the world of work. It will also focus on developing the key employability and life skills required by employers and students will spend time each week in unpaid and paid work placements linked directly to employment opportunities in the local area.

Principal of Lutterworth College Andrew Cooper commented:

"We are delighted with the decision to approve the opening of the Sir Frank Whittle Studio School and we cannot wait to get started. We have had overwhelming support from local and regional businesses and we now look forward to creating a first class school that prepares young people with the skills needed by employers when they leave school or university."

Backed by a number of employers, including Babcock, Trelleborg and Serco, the Sir Frank Whittle Studio School will specialise in Engineering, Retail & Logistics and Hospitality & Leisure employment areas.

Justin Butlin of SERCO commented:

“SERCO is absolutely delighted to learn of the success of the application to open the Sir Frank Whittle Studio School in Lutterworth. The extensive groundwork put in by all partners to this application will pave the way for greater opportunities for local people in Lutterworth and the surrounding areas. It’s fantastic news and will mean better employability in our young people which will benefit local businesses, the local community and themselves.”

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

''We are delighted that the Sir Frank Whittle Studio School has been approved to open, which will be part of a network of 44 Studio Schools across England.

 
Studio Schools are playing a vital role in equipping young people with the skills and experience that they need to succeed in a competitive jobs market, through combining qualifications with real experience of the world of work. Employers are keen to help prepare young people for the workplace, and Studio Schools allow them to get involved in all aspects of school life - from designing the curriculum and delivering masterclasses, to providing paid work placements and mentoring students.
 
Sir Frank Whittle Studio School 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.''