Authors: Dr James Robson, Ashmita Randhawa and Professor Ewart Keep SKOPE Research Centre - University of Oxford
Narrow, exam focused academic frameworks have little relevance for practically-oriented forms of pedagogy, but unfortunately schools are often measured against this system. Instead, this report examines the use of the CREATE (Communication, Relating to Others, Enterprise, Applied Skills, Thinking Skills and Emotional Intelligence) curriculum framework developed by the Studio Schools Trust. We explore how the framework is used as an alternative to shaping young people’s employability and enterprise skills and consider best practice for Studio Schools and other education institutions.
Recommendations
- Despite the challenges of high accountability measures, increasing competition and reduced funding, Studio Schools continue to offer an innovative alternative to traditional education.
- To implement the CREATE framework successfully, schools should ensure key principles of:
- Strong Leadership: to maintain unwavering belief in the strength of the framework
- Ownership: including stakeholders so they feel a sense of ownership of the framework
- Language: language used must be relevant for all stakeholders, especially students
- Training: to ensure the goals and ethos of the framework are understood by staff
- Integration: frameworks are most successful when embedded into school culture
