Work has started on University Technical College (UTC) Leeds, an advanced educational establishment which will equip the manufacturers and engineers of tomorrow with world class skills.
UTC Leeds is due to open in September 2016, offering students a high quality education focused on Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing.
Applications are now open and students interested in careers in manufacturing and engineering are urged to visit www.utcleeds.com and download the prospectus and apply online.
UTC Leeds has a target for at least 30% of students to be female and teenage girls are encouraged to apply.
There will be 105 places available for the first intake of Year 10 students, and 120 places for Year 12 students.
The 5,200 sqm high-tech college will provide up to 600 students with an education focusing on core academic qualifications, as well as technical knowledge and skills.
UTC Leeds is sponsored by The University of Leeds, manufacturers including Agfa Graphics, Siemens and Unilever, and business organisations such as the EEF and Leeds Chamber of Commerce.
The first UTC in the Leeds City Region, the site will offer cutting-edge facilities to equip students with the skills and knowledge to successfully pursue careers in advanced manufacturing, science and engineering.
Designed to reflect the high-tech world of engineering, it will include a mini-factory alongside classrooms and lecture-style theatres for its students aged 14-18.
The UTC will be located in the west wing of the historic Grade II listed Braime Pressings factory, which has a 125-year history in engineering excellence.
Principal designate for the new UTC, Mark Kennedy commented: “This is a major milestone for the UTC and moves us a significant step closer to our opening in September 2016.
UTC Leeds is currently holding a series of pop up events to meet potential students and parents.
The next one is scheduled for November 25 at the Merrion Shopping Centre in Leeds between 9am and 5pm.
There are also ‘Meet the Principal’ events planned and details can be found on www.utcleeds.com.
“The location of the UTC combined with our wider relationship with industry and commerce, puts us in the driving seat when it comes to helping young people develop the advanced technical skills needed by UK industry.”
Work on the site starts as the Baker Dearing Educational Trust research reveals that two thirds (66%) of parents fear their child will not find a job when they leave education.
Nearly half (48.1%) of parents said they felt stressed about their child’s education and 80% of parents believed the education system needed to change to reflect 21st century working Britain.
