TATTON MP George Osborne was ‘thrilled’ to break the first ground of Knutsford Academy’s £2.5million Studio School last week.

The Chancellor was joined by students, teachers and Studio School business partners in marking the start of the new building project on January 10.

Mr Osborne, in his capacity as Tatton MP, has worked closely with Academy Principal Kevin Hollins since the project’s inception and has ‘put a huge effort into getting the Studio School off the ground’.

“As the local MP, Mr Osborne’s keen interest in Knutsford Academy, his willingness to provide constructive advice and to give his time so generously to us has been invaluable over the years,” said Mr Hollins.

“He has been fully committed to the development of our Studio School and indeed to ensuring that our pupils have the best facilities possible.”

Knutsford Academy’s Studio School, which will be built onsite, will offer pupils the chance to learn academic subjects through practical projects designed and delivered by employers.

It is one of only 40 schools to be granted the title and the school will be operation from September 2014.

The Studio will be an option open to students at 14 or 16 and will offer pupils – in addition to academic core subjects - programmes relating to five differing employment pathways; computing, design-based industries, the broadcast media, sport and leisure and careers in the performing arts.

The courses will be delivered in partnership with national companies such as Deloitte, Barclays Bank, Manchester City, Harvey Nichols and Manchester City Airport.

“Hundreds of pupils at the school will be learning the skills they need to have great careers in the future, doing it in the latest facilities. A massive team effort has paid off, and it is very exciting that Knutsford will be one of the first places in the country to benefit from this type of school,” said Mr Osborne.

“Many schools in this country would be nervous of taking this step but the Academy has embraced their future with both hands.”