Shireland CBSO Academy is excited to announce that it will be opening its doors to prospective students and their families for its upcoming open event on Wednesday 16 September 2026, from 5:00pm – 7:30pm. No booking required.
The event offers an early opportunity for families to explore the Academy for Year 7 entry, starting September 2027. Visitors will be able to tour the Academy’s state-of-the-art facilities, including sports centre and recording studio, and subject departments, speak directly with staff and students about academy life, and meet the Principal.
Known as the first state school in Britain to be established in partnership with a professional orchestra, Shireland CBSO Academy combines the full national curriculum with a focus on musical excellence. Serving Sandwell and the wider West Midlands, students benefit from unique opportunities, including free instrumental or vocal tuition, workshops and masterclasses with musicians from the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra. The Academy welcomes all students, whether or not they have previous musical experience, and provides a supportive and inclusive environment where pupils can develop academically, creatively and personally.
Principal David Green said: “At Shireland CBSO Academy, we want every student to feel confident exploring new challenges and discovering what they’re capable of. Our classrooms, studios and ensembles aren’t just places to learn; they’re spaces where curiosity, creativity and teamwork come alive. Families visiting our open events can see how students support one another, take pride in their achievements, and enjoy learning in a community that’s welcoming, ambitious and full of energy.”
Families are advised to arrive early, allowing ample time to get the most of their visit and help make the right, informed decision for their child’s education.
The Academy will also be hosting an open morning on Saturday 19 September 2026, 9:00am – 11:00am.
Applications for parents applying for secondary school places through Sandwell open in July 2026 and Dudley in September 2026. From this date, parents of children moving into Year 7 will be able to apply for their place via their local authority.
Applications are welcome from students in all local authorities. A guide to applications can be found on the admissions page of our website.
The Academy is also proud to offer its Music Aptitude Programme, designed for students with a passion for music who wish to develop their talents further. With 15 places available to students each year, the programme provides additional tuition, ensemble opportunities and specialised workshops, helping pupils grow as musicians while continuing to follow the full national curriculum. Interested families must still apply to the Academy through their local authority and list Shireland CBSO Academy as their first choice. Music Aptitude applications must be submitted by Friday 2 October 2026 in advance of the local authority school application deadline.
To find out more about Shireland CBSO Academy and its open events, please call 0121 818 4620, email info@scbso.shirelandcat.net or visit the website.
