Frequently asked questions

How do I apply?

The application process is different for Year 10 and Year 12. For more information, see our ‘Join Us’ page.

Do you just do engineering?

We specialise in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths but at WMG Academy you will get to study other subjects such as English, Computer Science, Design and Business Studies – subjects we believe will help you with your chosen career.

In the sixth form you can choose from a number of ‘pathways’. These can include engineering, A Levels or a combination of both.

Is it just for boys?

Certainly not. While we have a high percentage of boys, our female students are growing in number each year. We even hold special events just for girls to encourage women into science, technology, engineering and maths. There are opportunities for everyone at WMG Academy.

Am I going to get dirty every day?

There is a perception that engineering is all about oily overalls and dirty fingernails. But engineering is a very varied subject with opportunities in many sectors. We have a full CAD (Computer-Aided Design) Suite – not a spec of dirt to be seen! Engineering can be about machinery but it can also be about designing and problem-solving and we aim to cover as much as possible during your years here. Engineers work in sectors including space, conservation, cosmetics, food and drink, IT, utilities, charity and of course automotive.

Will I get a job when I leave?

Our aim is to equip you with all the skills, opportunities, experience and advice to put you in the best possible position when you leave the academy. There is hard work involved (and long days) but we work closely with some of the world’s biggest brands to offer our students work experience, visits from industry experts, apprenticeship tips, careers advice and interview skills. At WMG Academy we put a lot of time into helping our students find the right career or higher education opportunity. The rest is up to you.

Am I allowed to leave my old school?

The government sends out a letter to families each year, explaining that students may switch schools at age 14 if they choose to. This letter is sent out to parents in September each year and families then have until the end of January to apply for a place at WMG Academy.

Why do you have longer days?

We are proud of our ‘business-like, business-led’ ethos and so we want our working days to be just like they would in the real working world. Our day starts at 8.30am and finishes at 4.30pm, with optional ‘enrichment’ activities most days until 6pm.

Is there a uniform?

Because of our ‘business-like, business-led’ approach, we expect all students to be smart and dress in business wear. There is no uniform. We do, however, have a dress code, including an academy tie which our younger students (Year 10 and Year 11) are expected to wear.

How do I get there?

WMG Academy is based on the edge of the University of Warwick’s main campus, and we work in partnership with the university. There are good public transport links with frequent bus services and there is a train station within walking distance. Due to the fact that our students come from all over Coventry, Warwickshire, Birmingham, Solihull, Leicester – and even as far as Oxfordshire and Northamptonshire – we do not operate our own bus service.

Will I have to attend every day?

Students at GCSE level must attend all day every day. For sixth form students the timetable will depend on your subjects and how close you are to reaching your expected goals.

Is there a selection process?

At Key Stage 4, WMG Academy does not select students based on academic criteria. Applications for Year 10 are submitted via the local education authority. The main thing is that you have an interest in science, technology, engineering and maths and have a good attitude to learning. At Year 12, conditional offers are made subject to students achieving the required GCSE grades for their chosen subjects. All students will be invited to attend a Guidance Meeting following the application closing date.

What extra-curricular activities can I do?

WMG Academy offers a whole host of enrichment activities. These include robotics, Royal Navy Engineering Challenge, CANSAT space challenge, rugby, football, choir, netball, climbing and electric cars.

Will I get homework?

Yes. Engineering is not all about practical work. There is a lot of theory, planning and writing involved. You will also have your core subjects such as English, maths and science, plus any other subjects you choose to study. All schools give students homework.

Will I have to do exams?

Yes, but some students will do more exams than others. The number of exams will depend on which subjects you choose, how many subjects you take and what year you are in. But all students have exams, coursework and ongoing assessments.

I’m in Year 8 – can I join?

WMG Academies accept students from Year 10 (age 14) but if you are interested in coming to our academy in future, you can come and visit on one of our open days, virtual events or evening tours. You can also register an interest and we’ll be in touch nearer the time.