We can take you anywhere.
Welcome to the Workshop School
Welcome to the Workshop School
About
We're known for building cars. But what we really build runs deeper. Community. Skills. Futures.
We believe every student has gifts, even if they don't know what they are, or if other schools haven't seen them. Our job is to help students discover and grow those gifts, to surround them with a community of supportive adults and peers, and to challenge them to become the best version of themselves every day.
Our Approach
Our curriculum is interdisciplinary and project-based. Projects tackle real-world challenges, expose students to new careers, and provide opportunities to design, create, and make things. In 11th and 12th grade, students complete internships and independent projects that take them beyond the classroom.
We cannot succeed without a strong community to support, challenge, and celebrate us. We begin with trust, communication, and accountability. We view setbacks as opportunities for growth and healing. None of us are perfect, but all of us have something to offer.
The skills students need most aren't tied to any single career. How to work in a team, solve problems, communicate effectively, build relationships, and adapt to change — our curriculum is designed to build and test these skills in every field.
The Experience
Every student is placed in an advisory of roughly 20 students. Advisories spend roughly half the day together, building community and doing project work. Each day, project block begins with circle — a 20–30 minute period focused on community.
When students aren't in advisory, they're in seminar — subject-based classes like English, math, science, and shop. Most have an active, hands-on component.
At the end of every trimester, students complete public presentations called Exhibitions — showing evidence of skills built, reflecting on successes, and setting goals for the term ahead. Exhibitions are attended by parents, caregivers and guests, and are paired with report card conferences.
9th & 10th Grade
Projects designed by teachers expose students to a wide range of themes and skill sets. Students also gain hands-on experience in our automotive program and makerspace.
Gateway Project
At the end of 10th grade, students complete a supercharged exhibition in which an outside reviewer interviews them about their plans for 11th and 12th grade.
Automotive Program
About 40% of students pursue our award-winning automotive path, earning industry certification and nearly always landing jobs in the field after graduation.
Internship & ILP
11th grade internships and a student-designed, year-long 12th grade project. More than half of ILP students transition to college; the rest enter the workforce or public service.
Admissions
The Workshop School is open to all students. We have no test score or GPA requirements, and no feeder pattern. But that does not mean that we are for everyone.
Applications run through the School District of Philadelphia high school selection process, which typically opens in September.
We typically have 5–6 applicants for every open slot. We strongly encourage listing Workshop as your first choice on your application if you are serious about enrolling here.
Contact
Address
5630 Vine Street
Philadelphia, PA 19139
Phone
215.400.7730