Michael Gove gives go ahead for Wigan UTC
Today the Government named the Wigan UTC as one of the thirteen successful applications across the country that has been given the go-ahead for funding (see full list and map). This is in addition to the five UTCs already approved – JCB in Staffordshire (operating), the Black Country (just opened), Aston in Birmingham (2012), Hackney (2012) and Greenwich (2013).
The Wigan UTC, due to open in 2012 will specialise in Manufacturing Engineering and Environmental Technology. This exceptional educational offering is supported by the University of Salford and Wigan and Leigh College, plus a range of local companies who will be working in partnership.
For the past three years, the Baker Dearing Educational Trust (BDT) have been working with the Department for Education, local employers, universities and further education colleges to develop a national network of UTCs. The Government have pledged to increase the number to 24.
Lord Kenneth Baker, co-founder of BDT, said: “George Osborne and Michael Gove have shown their commitment to these new colleges for 14-19 year olds by supporting a national network. I am delighted that it has all party support and so many people, right across the country, want to open UTCs.
Companies up and down the country desperately need highly skilled technicians and engineers. UTCs will help our economic growth. Over 130 companies are supporting these eighteen UTCs - a record industrial investment.
The Wigan UTC approved today has been developed by people with passion and vision. Thanks to them, thousands of young people will have the chance to combine outstanding hands-on learning with an excellent academic education, leading to unrivalled career opportunities.
We look forward to taking this project forward, as well as supporting and encouraging the next round of new applications planned for Spring 2012.”
UTCs are a new concept in education. They are free standing colleges for 14 to 19 year old students, with a working day of 8:30am-5:30pm. Technical and academic education is integrated and practical work is valued as highly as academic study. Each will provide at least one technical specialism alongside the key GCSEs in English, maths and science, as well as a foreign language, humanities, finance, business, entrepreneurial and employability skills.
All UTCs are supported by a University. This unique approach opens up to students a high quality pathway to success, which can lead to apprenticeships, foundation and higher degrees.
Local employers both big and small have a major role. They help to shape the curriculum so that it is related to future jobs and matches the needs of the local economy. Students in turn acquire the skills and knowledge employers are looking for. It is essential to provide more technicians, engineers and highly skilled people for the future economic growth of the country.
Wigan Council’s Deputy Leader, Cllr David Molyneux says: “We welcome the government’s announcement regarding the University Technical College in Wigan, and we look forward to working with the partner sponsors on this project to create a facility that provides the best opportunities for our young people.”
Cath Hurst Principal at the College said, “I am delighted with the decision to develop a Wigan UTC. Wigan & Leigh College plan that this will complement the existing provision offered by the College. We are fortunate to have the backing of local businesses including Martin Ainscough who has lead the initiative. We hope that the link to the University of Salford will help young people develop a clear progression route into higher education."