New project forStudio Schoolis the business

The school follows a new teaching model which creates a realistic working environment for all their students aged 14-18.

Starting with a 9 to 5 working day, the school places a strong emphasis on business practice and project based learning.

Students work on live projects such as public performances and pop up shops and complete work placements in their chosen fields.

Stephen King from the Let’s Do Business Group is supporting the development of the new enterprise driven curriculum.

He said: “We are so excited to be involved with this new initiative.

“The arts industry is big business and there is ever more demand for people with experience of organising events, exhibitions and performances, as well specific talents such as design, copywriting and computer arts.

“My job is to put these skills into a business context and teach students how to make money from them.”

The Let’s Do Business Group already provides business skills training as part of its apprenticeship programme and is committed to providing young people in the area with the skills they need for work.

Jo Townshend, Rye Studio Principle, said: “Typically in mainstream schools and colleges there are limited study options on offer to art students of this age and there is no focus on the commercial use of art, music or performance.

“We are taking a different approach to these subjects. Our students will leave here with top qualifications, a portfolio of employability skills and a network of contacts.”