STUDIO 40

Studio 40 Lead: Ms L Tidmarsh
email:lauren.tidmarsh@winchmore.enfield.sch.uk
tel: 0208 360 7773 Ext

 

Welcome to Studio 40 

A Warm, supportive space helping young people in Years 9–11 who cannot access mainstream provisions build independence, aspiration, and success.

In Studio 40, we blend academic ambition with gentle, tailored emotional support. We know that every student’s journey looks a little different, so we provide a calm, predictable, and welcoming environment where young people feel safe, understood, and truly ready to thrive.

Who We Support

Studio 40 supports students in Years 9-11 who benefit from a smaller, highly supportive and nurturing learning environment. Our students may have a range of social, emotional, sensory or communication needs, or may have experienced barriers or disruption to their learning. Through personalised support, strong relationships and carefully tailored provision, we help students rebuild confidence, re-engage with learning and make positive progress towards their individual goals and future aspirations.

Curriculum and Learning

We believe every student deserves high expectations and equal opportunities. We keep our learning closely aligned with the core school curriculum while adapting the pace, structure, and teaching style to fit each individual.

  • Qualifications That Count: Students work towards GCSEs and vocational qualifications, supported by scaffolded lessons, tailored materials, and modified assessments.

  • Bespoke Learning Pathways: We build custom timetables that balance academic subjects with personal growth, well-being sessions, and practical skill-building.

  • Focused Individual Support: One-to-one and small-group support are built right into the daily routine to help students meet their personal targets.

  • Ready for the Future: We place a strong focus on career guidance, college preparation, and practical life skills so students feel confident stepping into life after Year 11.

Personal Development

Personal development is just as important to us as academic progress. We work with students every day to nurture their self-belief, agency, and emotional well-being:

  • Emotional Well-being: We teach practical coping tools, emotional awareness, and resilience techniques in a safe environment.

  • Target Setting & Ownership: We help students understand, set, and take charge of their own personal targets so they feel in control of their progress.

  • Trusted Mentors: Dedicated key workers build warm, trusting relationships with students, providing consistent mentoring.

  • Enrichment Programme: Students enjoy small-group creative arts, physical activities, and community trips that build teamwork and confidence.

Independent Learning

Building self-reliance is at the heart of what we do, ensuring students develop the skills needed for adulthood and post-16 success:

  • Explicit teaching of study habits, organisation, and time management.

  • Encouragement to make independent choices and take responsibility for their learning.

  • Guided transition into self-directed study and practical life skills.

Mainstream School Support & Integration

Studio 40 offers the best of both worlds a calm, specialist base combined with flexible connection to the wider school community:

  • Shared Classes: Students access mainstream lessons wherever appropriate, supported by a dedicated teaching assistant in every class.

  • Seamless Collaboration: Studio staff work in close partnership with mainstream subject teachers and pastoral leaders to maintain consistent strategies.

  • Whole-School Life: Students are invited to participate in school events, assemblies, and extra-curricular clubs, maintaining a strong sense of belonging.

Working in Partnership with Families

We recognise that parents and carers know their children best. Strong, collaborative relationships with families are fundamental to our success:

  • Open, daily communication to share achievements and address concerns early.

  • Regular reviews and progress meetings to ensure learning aligns with family goals.

  • A supportive, welcoming environment where parents feel listened to and involved in every step of their child’s education.

  • Weekly phone calls home in order to maintain contact with home to provide the best support for each child.

A Space Built Around the Student

We know a traditional schedule doesn't suit everyone. Studio 40 operates with flexible daily arrangements to reduce anxiety and promote independence:

  • Flexible or phased timetables

  • Small group or 1:1 learning spaces

  • Access to quiet regulation and sensory spaces

  • Staggered transitions between lessons and supported social times

The Difference Studio 40 Makes

When students feel safe and supported, incredible progress happens. Studio 40 proudly helps students achieve:

  • Improved attendance and renewed engagement with learning

  • Great progress in academic qualifications and personal targets

  • Reduced anxiety and enhanced emotional regulation

  • Stronger peer relationships and communication skills

  • Smooth, confident transitions to Post-16 education, apprenticeships, or training