LUTON’S Barnfield Studio School, the first of its kind in the world, is celebrating a successful first full year since opening.
The New Bedford Road school, which provides hands on learning for students aged between 14 and 18, not only achieved an outstanding Ofsted rating but also enabled many young students to exercise their entrepreneurial skills.
Learning is based around smaller classes, one-to-one business tutoring, flexible holiday periods and paid employment alongside traditional core school subjects such as English, maths, science and IT.
Brogan Hardiman is a shining example of a student who makes the most of the benefits and opportunities available at Barnfield Studio School.
The young entrepreneur has become manager of the Sugar AM breakfast club and started her own business – Brogan’s Bakes.
Not only that, but she has presented her homemade baked goods to VIP guests visiting the Studio School site.
The 15-year-old said: “I’ve had opportunities to meet important people like Schools Commissioner Dr Elizabeth Sidwell and Secretary of State, the Rt Hon Michael Gove MP and I wouldn’t be able to do Brogan’s Bakes anywhere else.
“Brogan’s Bakes is a success because it earns me a profit and it’s important to me as I like to give people nice food. We can also supply them gift wrapped as birthday presents too.”
And the new school has plenty to look forward to in 2012, it will move in to a purpose built multi-million building in September.
Pete Birkett, Chief Executive of the Barnfield Federation said “Studio School was set up to offer an alternative style of learning that would still enable students to progress to Apprenticeships, establish their own business or continue their education further at university. I am delighted at the opportunities it has opened up for so many students.”
Barnfield Studio School is holding a taster morning on February 4. To register your interest or to book a place visit www.studioschool.barnfield.ac.uk or call 01582 569 569.