The Studio Liverpool

Annie, a Sixth Form student, who has studied with us since Ignite (Year 9). 

I'm on the Liberal Arts Pathway, currently studying A-level History, English Literature and Sociology. I joined The Studio in 2021, back when I was in Year 9. A family friend who also studied here recommended it to me, and I had a personal tour from a teacher called Fiona during the summer, as open evenings weren’t running normally due to lockdown. Even from that first visit, the school had a really welcoming atmosphere.

Settling in was much easier than I expected. Because everyone was new, we were all figuring things out together, which made it easy to make friends. The teachers were incredibly supportive, and I felt like I could be myself straight away.

One of the highlights of my time here has been working on my EPQ, where I explored gentrification in football, focusing on fan impact and economic changes. I’ve also had the chance to work with the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine on an entomology project in Year 10, which was a brilliant experience that involved presenting to their external partners.

Even though I’m still figuring out what I want to do after sixth form, I feel much more prepared for the world beyond school. I’ve learnt how to network and engage with professionals in ways I didn’t even know existed before.

If you're considering joining the Studio, I’d definitely encourage you to. The opportunities, the support, and the people make it a great place to grow, both academically and personally.

Wren, a Sixth Form student who has studied with us since Year 10. 

I'm currently studying A-level Engineering, Maths and Geography. I joined the Studio at the start of Year 10 after actively looking for a school that better suited my interests and future ambitions. I took the initiative to find a place that aligned more closely with my goals, and that’s how I found the Studio. What really stood out to me was the strong emphasis on both university and industry preparation.

Since joining, I’ve developed a real passion for 3D CAD and product design. I’ve completed my Autodesk certification to demonstrate my CAD skills, and I’ve taken part in a wide range of enrichment activities and visits to industry partners such as BAE Systems, Surface Transforms, and Sellafield. I particularly enjoy the short, timed CAD challenges we do in class. They’re fast-paced, fun, and have really sharpened my technical skills.

The support from staff has been excellent. I didn’t have a personal computer when I started, and the school provided me with a device for the duration of my time here, which has allowed me to complete all my coursework from home. They’ve also helped me secure a work placement with Boyers in Manchester, something I wouldn’t have been able to arrange on my own. Regular guest speakers and career-focused sessions have given me valuable insight into the world of engineering.

The environment here is unique; it’s professional but relaxed. Being on a first-name basis with most teachers makes it easier to ask for help and creates a collaborative atmosphere. If I could give my younger self advice, I’d tell them to join the Studio in Year 9 rather than Year 10. I would’ve had more time to explore the STEAM pathways and get a head start on the opportunities available here.

I’d absolutely recommend the Studio to anyone considering it. It’s a place where you’re genuinely supported to grow, both academically and personally, and where your future is taken seriously from day one.

Lily, a Sixth Form student who has studied with us since Year 12.

I'm currently studying A-level Art, Graphics and Lens-Based Media. I joined the Studio in September 2023 because I was looking for a Sixth Form that offered more creative freedom and better opportunities. The Studio stood out for its range of creative subjects and strong support from staff, which has made a real difference to my experience.

Since starting, I’ve taken part in several incredible projects and trips. We’ve visited local galleries, including a printmaking workshop at The Bluecoat and exhibitions at FACT, which were both inspiring and informative. One of the most valuable opportunities I’ve had was taking part in a BFI course through the British Film Institute. It was a six-month process where we worked in teams to produce a short film, an experience that significantly contributed to my university application. In fact, when I visited my chosen university, the admissions tutor recognised my name from my personal statement and portfolio, which included the film I made during the course.

The Studio’s project-based approach and small class sizes mean you get dedicated one-to-one time with tutors, which has helped me grow both creatively and professionally. We’re not just treated like students, we're supported and challenged as emerging creatives preparing for real industry work.

Another highlight was our Year 12 exhibition project, based on the theme of ‘The Past’. After six months of development, our work was exhibited at the Arts Bar next door. It was such a proud moment to have our work displayed in a professional setting, and it's something not many students get the chance to experience.

I would absolutely recommend the creative pathway at The Studio. The range of opportunities, from industry partnerships to portfolio-building projects, is unmatched. The teaching style truly prepares you for the demands of the creative industry, giving you a strong foundation and the confidence to move forward with your goals.